Kinesio Taping in Obesity: Breathing and Sleep Implications

Obesity, defined as excessive fat accumulation, is a chronic, complex, and global health issue. It is increasingly prevalent worldwide and is considered a disease that requires treatment. According to recent data, 43% of adults aged 18 and over were classified as overweight, and 16% as obese. In Turkey, a national health survey reported that among individuals aged 15 and above, 20.2% were obese, and 35.6% were in a pre-obese state based on their body mass index (BMI).

The effects of excess weight on health are significant, as weight gain shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life. Obesity has detrimental effects on many systems, including the respiratory system. It reduces the compliance of the lungs and chest wall, alters respiratory patterns and ventilation-perfusion relationships, impairs gas exchange, and decreases lung volumes. In some individuals, respiratory control is altered due to the effects of adipokines, which can lead to hypoventilation and increased levels of carbon dioxide in the blood (hypercapnia).

Obesity affects the respiratory system both symptomatically (e.g., shortness of breath) and functionally. Respiratory function disorders in individuals with obesity may include decreased functional residual capacity (FRC), expiratory reserve volume (ERV), and, in some cases, reduced total lung capacity (TLC). Additionally, obesity is a health issue that affects sleep quality. There are three proposed bidirectional relationships: obesity causes poor sleep, poor sleep contributes to obesity, and both may coexist. Individuals with obesity often report poor sleep quality and sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.

The primary function of the respiratory system is gas exchange, which is closely related to the mechanical properties of the respiratory pump. The functionality of this pump depends on the interaction of the lungs, abdominal wall, ribs, intercostal muscles, and the diaphragm. In diseases that impair the structure of the diaphragm, improving its function can alleviate symptoms and significantly enhance pulmonary function test results.

Kinesiology taping (KT), an elastic therapeutic taping method, is commonly used for musculoskeletal disorders but has a wide range of clinical applications. Kinesiology tapes are reported to support weak muscles, increase circulation, reduce pain by stimulating the neurological system, provide proprioceptive feedback, and correct joint misalignments. The mechanism by which KT influences muscle strength depends on the application technique, which can either enhance or inhibit muscle activation. The underlying mechanism is explained by the stimulation of sensory-motor and proprioceptive systems, aiming to improve muscle function through enhanced neuromuscular feedback. Kinesiology taping has also shown potential benefits in respiratory conditions by improving diaphragm function, reducing respiratory muscle fatigue, and enhancing overall respiratory mechanics.

Understanding the effects of thoracic kinesiology taping on respiratory function, vital signs, sleep, quality of life, and cognitive functions in individuals with obesity is of great importance for physiotherapists and researchers. The findings from this study may provide valuable insights for developing comprehensive rehabilitation programs and improving the health status of individuals with obesity. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of thoracic kinesiology taping on respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, vital signs, sleep, quality of life, and cognitive status in individuals with obesity.