Comparison of the Effects of Elastic and Rigid Taping on Gross Motor Function, Balance, and Functional Capacity in Children with Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized, Single-Blinded Trial

Abstract

Background/Objectives: This randomized, single-blinded trial compared the effects of Kinesio taping (KT) and rigid taping (RT) on gross motor function, balance, and functional capacity in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (HCP). Methods: Fifty-two children (aged 7-16) were assessed using the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (PBBS), Time-Up-and-Go (TUG), and 2-Minute Walk Test (2-MWT). Results: Both KT and RT produced significant intra-group improvements in GMFM, PBBS, TUG, and 2-MWT scores (p <= 0.001). Although nonparametric analysis suggested greater changes for KT in TUG and 2-MWT (p < 0.001; p = 0.036), no significant inter-group differences were found when baseline scores were adjusted using the General Linear Model (GLM) (2-MWT: p = 0.29; TUG: p = 0.087). Conclusions: KT and RT are similarly effective adjuncts to physiotherapy, improving gross motor function, balance, and functional capacity in children with HCP. Therefore, the choice between KT and RT may be guided by clinical preference, child tolerance, and therapeutic goals rather than superiority of effect.