Effects of kinesio and dynamic taping on dynamic knee valgus: An eight-year scoping review
Keywords:
Dynamic knee valgus, lower extremity biomechanics, sportsAbstract
Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) is a biomechanical deviation strongly associated with increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury, patellofemoral pain, and movement impairments in athletic populations. Although Kinesio Taping (KT) and Dynamic Taping (DT) are widely used to enhance neuromuscular control, their efficacy in modifying DKV-related biomechanics remains unclear. This scoping review systematically synthesized evidence published between January 2018 and August 2025 in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (January 2018–August 2025) identified 3,771 records. After screening and eligibility assessment, nine studies (n = 303; ages 18–40) met the inclusion criteria. All eligible studies examined acute or short-term outcomes (immediate–72 h) in healthy or athletic adults. Across the included studies, KT and DT demonstrated modest and task-dependent reductions in knee valgus angle, improvements in frontal-plane alignment, and enhanced proprioceptive accuracy, particularly during single-leg squat, landing, and balance tasks. Several investigations reported task-specific increases in gluteus medius, tibialis anterior, or tensor fascia latae activation; however, these neuromuscular changes did not translate into meaningful improvements in strength, power output, running mechanics, or sport-specific performance. The observed benefits exhibited a transient profile, with most outcomes gradually regressing toward baseline within 72 hours. Overall, findings indicate that KT and DT function primarily as short-term sensorimotor facilitators rather than long-term corrective interventions. Their optimal utility lies in complementing progressive strengthening and neuromuscular training programs aimed at addressing modifiable DKV risk factors. High-quality randomized trials with larger samples and extended follow-up are needed to determine the durability and clinical significance of taping-induced biomechanical changes.
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