Effects of kinesio tape application on pain, anxiety, and menstrual complaints in women with primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized sham-controlled trial

Aim: To investigate the effects of kinesio tape (KT) application on pain, anxiety, and menstrual complaints in women with PD and compare this application with control and sham tape (ST). Methods: Fifty-one women with PD were randomized into three groups: KT, ST, and control groups. No tape application was performed in the control group. KT was applied on the sacral and suprapubic regions with the ligament technique in the KT group, while it was applied on the trochanter major with no technique in the ST group. Pain, anxiety level, and menstrual complaints were assessed before and after the applications. Results: The decreases in pain, anxiety levels, and some menstrual complaints after the application were higher in the KT group than those in the other two groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: KT application seems to be an effective method in decreasing pain, anxiety level, and some menstrual complaints in women with PD.