Effects of Taping on Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials Publisher



Mohamadi S ; Boozari S ; Delshad V ; Esmaeeli M
Source: Physical Treatments Published:2026

Abstract

Purpose: Pelvic floor disorders span a broad spectrum of common illnesses that impact the pelvic floor area in various ways. These conditions have a substantial financial, emotional, and physical impact on people, families, and society as a whole. Kinesio taping (KT) is utilized in the management and prevention of several pelvic floor disorders; however, there is insufficient research on KT’s effectiveness in this context. Consequently, the precise impact of this therapeutic approach on different pelvic floor issues remains unclear. To gain a better understanding of the effects of KT on the treatment of various pelvic floor dysfunctions, the current study aimed to conduct a systematic evaluation of all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: The following keywords were used to search databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Medline, and Web of Science: Kinesio-taping, kinesiology taping, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic floor conservative treatment, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor disorder, vaginal dysfunction, anal or defecatory dysfunction, urethral dysfunction, urge incontinence, stress incontinence, overactive bladder (OAB), constipation, sexual dysfunction, vaginismus, pelvic floor dyssynergia, erectile dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, voiding dysfunction, and chronic pelvic pain syndrome, as of March 2024. The checklist from the critical appraisal skills program (CASP) was utilized to evaluate the articles’ quality and bias risk. There were six RCTs that satisfied the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were reviewed. Results: There was insufficient evidence to suggest that incorporating KT is more clinically effective than placebo or some of other physiotherapy treatment modalities for urinary and defecatory dysfunctions and pelvic girdle pain. However, significant decreases were noted in the frequency of incontinence occurrences, and positive effects were observed on depression test results, defecation frequency (DF), duration, consistency, strain, pain, and ultimately improvement in quality of life. Conclusion: The findings revealed that the KT alone or in combination of other physiotherapy treatment modalities, have beneficial effects on some pelvic floor dysfunctions. However, due to the limitations of the studies, this research area requires more substantial evidence. © 2026 The Author(s);.