Efficacy of Dorsal Kinesio Tape Application for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Esports Gamers: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Study Summary

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of Kinesio Tape (KT) in alleviating carpal tunnel-like symptoms and enhancing gaming performance among young adult PC gamers. The study aims to address two primary questions: Does Kinesio Tape reduce wrist pain in adult PC gamers experiencing carpal tunnel-like symptoms? Does Kinesio Tape improve gaming performance in this population? Researchers will compare the effects of KT applied to the wrist versus the scapular spine to determine if wrist application provides greater pain relief and performance benefits. Participants will undergo: Screening \& Consent (Up to 30 minutes via Zoom): Informed consent and a Phalen's test to assess carpal tunnel-like symptoms. Baseline (Day 0, 75 minutes): Completion of a demographic survey, 15 minutes of gaming on Kovaaks FPS Aim Trainer, KT application, 15 minutes of post-application gaming, and surveys (Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Severity \[BCSS\] and KT feedback). Days 1 \& 2 (15 minutes each): KT removal and reapplication, followed by BCSS and KT feedback surveys. Day 3 (75 minutes): Repeat gaming tests, KT application, and completion of BCSS and KT feedback surveys, mirroring Day 0 procedures. Total Time Commitment: Approximately 210 minutes (3.5 hours) over four sessions.

Primary Outcome

This outcome measures the severity and frequency of carpal tunnel-like symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, wrist, and forearm. Symptom severity was assessed using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire - Symptom Severity Scale (BCTQ-SSS), a validated self-report measure. The BCTQ-SSS uses a 5-point Likert scale where 1 indicates no symptoms and 5 indicates very severe symptoms. Participants rated their symptoms at the end of each session to monitor changes acr

Interventions

• DEVICE Kinesio Tape