Document Type

Thesis - NSU Access Only

Title

Effects of Postural Taping on the Electromyographic Activity of the Upper Trapezius Muscle in a Patient with Cervical Postural Syndrome

Authors

Lynn A. McCowen, Nova Southeastern University

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Copyright Statement

All rights reserved. This publication is intended for use solely by faculty, students, and staff of Nova Southeastern University. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, now known or later developed, including but not limited to photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author or the publisher.

Department

College of Health Care Sciences - Physical Therapy Department

Publication Date / Copyright Date

1998

Publisher

Nova Southeastern University

NSUWorks Citation

Lynn A. McCowen. 1998. Effects of Postural Taping on the Electromyographic Activity of the Upper Trapezius Muscle in a Patient with Cervical Postural Syndrome. Master's thesis. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, College of Health Care Sciences - Physical Therapy Department. (136)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_pt_stuetd/136.

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the effects of postural taping as measured by surface electromyography (EMG) of the upper trapezius muscle and reported pain levels in a patient with cervical postural syndrome.

Subjects: A 35 year old female with a 5 year history and 4 month current duration of recurrent cervical and upper back pain associated with repetitive faulty posture.

Methodology: An A-B single case design was utilized to allow for evaluation of the effects of postural taping on the EMG activity of the upper trapezius muscle with concurrent recording of the subject's pain levels. The split-middle technique and binomial test at a p value of .05 were performed.

Results: The postural taping provided for a statistically significant decrease in the EMG activity of the upper trapezius muscle resulting in a balance of tension across the joint not evident prior to the intervention. A positive correlation was found between measured muscle activity and pain levels reported by the patient.

Conclusion: Physical therapists should consider the use of postural taping as a compliment to existing physical therapy protocols for the treatment of chronic neck and upper back pain when rehabilitation efforts are targeted at the restoration of normal and efficient muscle recruitment for the alleviation of the patient's pain.

Disciplines

Physical Therapy