Placebo Effect of Immediate Kinesio Taping on Upper Extremity Performance in Healthy Adults

This study investigates whether Kinesio Taping has immediate effects on upper extremity performance in healthy adults and whether these effects may be influenced by placebo mechanisms. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: therapeutic Kinesio Taping, sham Kinesio Taping, or no intervention. All participants complete tests of hand function, including grip strength, typing performance, reaction time, and manual dexterity, before and after a short standardized waiting period. Participants also rate their perceived performance, comfort, and overall change. The purpose of this study is to investigate the immediate effects of therapeutic Kinesio Taping on objective upper extremity motor performance and perceived function in healthy adults, and to determine whether perceived improvements correspond to measurable changes in motor performance.

Inclusion Criteria: * Being healthy adult between 18-40 years * No current pain or injury in the dominant upper extremity * No history of chronic musculoskeletal conditions affecting the upper extremity * Ability to read, understand, and provide informed consent * Regular use of a standard keyboard and mouse, with a minimum self-reported typing frequency of ≥5 hours per week, ensuring familiarity with digital typing tasks and adequate baseline fine motor coordination. Exclusion Criteria: * Respiratory, neurological, or cardiovascular disorders * History of surgery or fracture in the dominant upper extremity within the last six months * Known allergy or skin sensitivity to adhesives or Kinesio Tape materials * Current use of medications affecting physical performance or sensation * Participation in ongoing physical therapy or rehabilitation * Diagnosed cognitive impairment or visual deficits that could affect typing or reaction-time performance * Engagement in high-level upper extremity sports (\>10 hours/week) that could bias grip or typing performance