Effect of IASTM versus Kinesiotaping on Maximal Grip Strength in Healthy Adults: A Single Blinded Randomized Controlled Comparative Study

The purpose of this Randomized, single-blind comparative study is to determine the immediate effect of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) versus Kinesiotaping on maximal grip strength in healthy adults. A total of one hundred and fifty (150) healthy adults between the ages of 18 to 50 years participated in the study. Subjects were separated into three groups; IASTM, kinesiotaping and control group. The main outcome measure was maximal grip strength. It was measured using Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment (BTE) Primus RS isometric testing (with Tool 162). All subjects were assessed before and immediately after performing the intervention. Amongst all groups, statistical significant differences were found in IASTM and Kinesiotaping group when compared to the control group. However no significant difference was found between the IASTM and Kinesiotaping groups. Hence the current study supports the use of both IASTM and kinesiotape as an adjunct to conventional treatment for increasing maximal grip strength.