Application of tape at the shoulder joint: An effective therapeutic modality for the treatment of impingement syndrome?

Shoulder taping is commonly used in the clinical setting as an adjunct to other physiotherapy modalities when treating secondary impingement syndrome. However, the mechanisms by which tape may produce an effect at the shoulder are still under debate. The objectives of this review are to elucidate the effects of taping at the shoulder upon proprioception, muscle recruitment, pain and functional recovery at this joint. A search of the relevant databases was undertaken and six studies were identified as relevant. The heterogeneity of these studies and the conflicting outcomes obtained highlight the need for further research into the effectiveness of the use of tape as a treatment modality for secondary impingement syndrome at the shoulder.