Kinesiotape effects on ankle functional performance and perceived stability in chronic ankle instability: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Introduction
Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is characterised by recurrent sprains, impaired balance and reduced perceived joint stability. Kinesiotape (KT) is commonly used in rehabilitation, but its effects on the functional outcomes remain unclear.
Material and methods
This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the PRISMA (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis) guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024497654). PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PEDro and SPORTDiscus were searched for randomised controlled trials, including crossover studies, comparing KT with no tape (NT) or other taping methods in CAI populations from January 2014 to September 2025. Eligible studies reported ankle functional performance or perceived ankle stability outcomes. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed where appropriate, and evidence certainty was assessed using GRADE (grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation).
Results
Seventeen studies involving 451 participants were included, with most outcomes reflecting immediate effects. Compared with NT, KT improved star excursion balance test performance in the posterolateral and posteromedial directions and reduced the mediolateral centre-of-pressure range and sway area. KT also improved anterior reach versus rigid tape and was associated with greater perceived stability. No significant effects were observed for proprioception assessed by joint position sense tests. Overall evidence certainty ranged from low to moderate.
Conclusions
KT may improve postural control and perceived stability in individuals with CAI, mainly in the short term; however, the evidence certainty is low to moderate. KT may be considered as a complementary rehabilitation intervention, but further high-quality studies are needed.
© 2026 Siyang Fu et al.
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