Comparison of the Effects of Kinesio Taping and Graston Application in Individuals With Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is characterized by pain, stiffness, and discomfort that typically develop 24-72 hours after unaccustomed or intense physical activity. Previous studies suggest that both Kinesio taping and the Graston technique may help reduce DOMS-related symptoms. However, these two approaches have not been directly compared, and their effects on muscle oxygen saturation, peak squat force, and lower-extremity response time remain unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the short-term effects of Kinesio taping and the Graston technique in healthy participants with exercise-induced DOMS. A total of 36 participants were randomly allocated to three groups: a Kinesio taping group, a Graston technique group, and a control group that received no therapeutic intervention and recovered naturally. Pain severity, muscle oxygen saturation, peak squat force, and lower-extremity response time were assessed 0h after the DOMS-induction protocol, before the interventions, and again 48 hours after the DOMS-induction protocol, corresponding to 48 hours after the interventions were initiated.

NCT Number	NCT07438431
Lead Sponsor	Gazi University
Conditions	Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
Enrollment	36 participants
Start Date	2024-06-20
Primary Completion	2025-06-01 (estimated)
Study Completion	2025-06-01 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-08-13