THE EFFECTS OF INSTRUMENT-ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION AND KINESIO TAPING ON PAIN, FUNCTIONAL DISABILITY AND DEPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: A RANDOMIZED TRIAL

Purpose: Low back pain is a common condition that can become chronic, which reduces the life quality of the patient by causing functional disability and depression. This study aimed to investigate the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and kinesio taping (KT) along with conservative treatment in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP). Methods: A total of 30 patients with chronic low back pain aged between 30-50 years included in the study were randomized to IASTM (n=15) and KT (n=15) groups. Both the groups underwent conservative treatment that comprised of a hot pack, ultrasound, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and home exercises. In this study, assessments were made using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The measurements were carried out at the beginning and end of the treatment. Results: As a result of the study, IASTM method improved in parameters such as pain (p<0.05), functionality (p=0.001) and depression (p<0.05). As a result of the study, the KT group improved in parameters such as pain, functionality and depression compared to pre-treatment (p<0.05). However, the two treatments were not superior to each other in pain (p=0.241), functionality (p=0.687) and depression (p=0.699) parameters. Conclusion: It has been observed that both treatments have positive effects on many parameters such as pain, disability, depression and mental state in patients with CNLBP. This study demonstrates that IASTM and KT treatments can be used to support therapeutic effects in patients with CNLBP.