The Effect of Soft Tissue Mobilization and Kinesio Taping on Sportive Performance in Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Duygu Kurt, Beyzanur Dikmen Hoşbaş, Ömer Şevgi̇n, Burak Buğday · Bakirkoy Tip Dergisi / Medical Journal of Bakirkoy · 2026
Objective: Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and Kinesio tape (KT) applications were suggested in the context of athlete rehabilitation.This study aimed to examine the impact of IASTM and KT on the bilateral hamstring muscles of athletes' balance, agility, and lower extremity explosive power.
Methods: A total of 45 athletes who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study.The participants were allocated to the exercise or the control group using simple randomization with a sealed envelope
Method: .The athletes were divided into three groups.All three groups' balance, agility, and jump-lower extremity explosive strength performances were evaluated in a single session using the single foot stance test, agility t-test, and standing long jump test, respectively, before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention.
Results: There was a significant difference between the IASTM and KT groups for the agility t-test (p 0.05).
Conclusion: The application of IASTM has been demonstrated to enhance balance and agility, while KT has been shown to improve agility in athletes.However, no significant differences were identified between the two
methods.IASTM and KT may be useful as complementary
methods.IASTM and KT may be useful as complementary methods to existing training programs for athletes, but further research is recommended to determine which is more effective.