The Effects of Rigid Scapular Taping on the Subacromial Space in Athletes With and Without Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Randomized Controlled Study

Context: Reduction of the subacromial space (SAS) during arm elevation may contribute to rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy. The effects of scapular taping on the SAS in athletes with and without RC tendinopathy are unknown. Objective: To investigate the immediate effects of scapular taping on the SAS in athletes with and without RC tendinopathy. Design: Randomized controlled study with repeated measures. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: A total of 43 male volleyball players (17 asymptomatic and 26 with RC tendinopathy, mean age = 22.9 [3.5] y) participated in the study. Intervention: Three scapular taping protocols—no taping (control), taping with tension (therapeutic taping), and taping without tension (sham taping). Main Outcome Measures: Ultrasound measurements of the SAS with the arm at 0° and 60° of shoulder abduction, and the change in the SAS between 0° and 60° of shoulder abduction (SAS0°–60°) were calculated. Results: Athletes with RC tendinopathy demonstrated larger SAS with therapeuti...