NCT07373925

Kinesio Taping Versus Dry Cupping Therapy in Treatment of Thoracic Kyphosis

Effect of Kinesio Taping Versus Dry Cupping Therapy in Treatment of Thoracic Kyphosis: A Randomized Control Trial

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 48 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Cairo University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 30 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study will be conducted to investigate the effect of Kinesio taping versus dry cupping therapy in the treatment of thoracic kyphosis

Detailed description

Kyphosis is defined as an increase in the forward curvature of the spine that is seen along the sagittal plane. When the forward curvature becomes excessive, this is called hyperkyphosis. The curvature can be a normal variance when presented in the thoracic spine or in excess be a cause for instability and concern. The natural history of kyphosis is not exactly well known. Kinesio Taping (KT) stands out as one such modality proposed to manage musculoskeletal disorders (MSK) disorders. First developed in the 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, It is touted for pain relief, increased range of motion (ROM), and muscle relaxation. As such, it is widely used, not only among athletes but also in clinical medicine Another traditional technique is known as dry cupping therapy that involve the application of cups to create localised negative pressure on the skin, has been utilised for over four thousand years. Its use spans various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain. Dry Cupping has traditionally carried folkloric, cultural, religious, and spiritual significance within various societies It is used for health promotion, prophylaxis and treatment of a variety of diseases around the world. It is a well-recognized traditional method for managing medical conditions. Currently, the scope of cupping therapy is expanding, and a growing body of research is providing additional evidence-based data for the further advancement of this therapy in the treatment of a variety of diseases. It has gained popularity and acceptance as a method of treating pain as well as sports injuries and other medical conditions.

Conditions

• Thoracic Kyphosis

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Kinesio taping	The subjects in this group will be treated with KT in addition to the traditional treatment for thoracic kyphosis. Elastic tape (Kinesio tape, Kinesio® Tex Classic, Kinesio Holding Corporation, New Mexico, USA) 5 cm in width will be applied on the upper back of participants by a certified physiotherapist. When applying the tape, the participants will be in an upright standing position with both arms along the side of the body in a relaxed position. Taping will be applied from a starting point at the anterior aspect of the acromioclavicular joint and will be applied across the spinous process at T6 with the tape ending around T12 paraspinal muscle. The elastic tape will be applied with a stretch of approximately 150 %, .Taping will not be taken off for four days. After day four, it will be taken off and the skin will be rested for two days. Taping application will be repeated on day 7. The patients in this group will be followed for four weeks.
OTHER	Dry Cupping Therapy	Participants in this group will receive three sessions per week for four weeks. Two sessions will include cupping therapy in addition to conventional treatment, while one session will consist of conventional treatment only. Six stationary cups will be placed directly around the thoracic spine three cups on each side of the spine. Reusable acrylic cups of medium diameter (3.5 cm) will be used for each individual at each session. The participant will be asked to lie prone. Before beginning the session, if any signs of dehydration are identified by the therapist, coconut oil will be applied to the region in order to hydrate the skin. cups will initially be applied through two suctions by the hand pump, "moderate" suction, which generates a negative pressure of approximately 300 millibar. For participants who report considerable discomfort, the pressure will slightly be minimized according to the individual sensation. cups will be positioned around the thoracic region for 10 Min.
OTHER	Conventional treatment	The participants in this group will receive conventional treatment that will include advices, stretching, strengthening and functional exercises 3 sessions a week for 4 weeks.

Timeline

• Start date: 2026-02-01
• Primary completion: 2026-06-01
• Completion: 2026-06-01
• First posted: 2026-01-28
• Last updated: 2026-01-28