Abstract image representing stroke recovery with cane and supportive tapes.

Stroke Recovery: Can Non-Elastic Taping and Exercise Help?

Soraya Malik in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Exploring the combined benefits of non-elastic taping and exercise for improved motor function in cane-assisted stroke survivors."

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, often impairing motor function and balance. Many stroke survivors rely on assistive devices like canes to improve their mobility and safety. While canes provide support, they can also contribute to abnormal walking patterns, making rehabilitation strategies crucial for regaining optimal function.

Rehabilitation programs commonly include strengthening exercises, balance training, and task-specific activities to address these impairments. However, the benefits of these interventions can be limited, particularly in individuals with chronic stroke. Researchers are continuously exploring innovative approaches to enhance motor function and overall quality of life for stroke survivors.

One such approach involves the use of non-elastic taping, which aims to improve joint alignment and muscle activation. While the immediate effects of taping have shown promise, the long-term benefits, especially when combined with exercise training, remain unclear. This article delves into a study investigating the effects of non-elastic taping combined with exercise on motor function in cane-assisted individuals with chronic stroke.

Unveiling the Study: Non-Elastic Taping and Exercise Synergy

Abstract image representing stroke recovery with cane and supportive tapes.

A recent study investigated the effectiveness of combining non-elastic taping with exercise training for improving motor function in cane-assisted individuals after stroke. The study aimed to determine if this combined approach could lead to greater improvements compared to exercise alone. The researchers focused on several key outcomes, including gait performance, balance, muscle strength, and fear of falling.

The study involved randomizing participants into two groups: an experimental group receiving non-elastic taping with Leukotape® P and an exercise program, and a control group receiving sham taping (placebo) with the same exercise program. Both groups participated in a six-week exercise training program, and various measurements were taken before, immediately after, and one month following the intervention.

Gait Performance: Assessed through various parameters, including cadence, step length, and walking speed.
Berg Balance Scale: A standardized test measuring static and dynamic balance abilities.
Muscle Strength: Measured the strength of hip extensor and abductor muscles.
Endurance: Assessed using the 6-Minute Walk Test.
Fear of Falling: Measured using the Fall Efficacy Scale.

The results of the study revealed significant improvements in several key areas for the experimental group. Specifically, participants who received non-elastic taping combined with exercise showed notable improvements in cadence, stance time on the affected side, spatial asymmetry ratio, Berg balance scores, fall efficacy scale scores, and 6-minute walk test performance.

Takeaway: Taping Plus Exercise

This study offers encouraging evidence that combining non-elastic taping with exercise training can lead to greater improvements in motor function for cane-assisted stroke survivors compared to exercise alone. The findings suggest that incorporating non-elastic taping into rehabilitation programs may enhance outcomes related to gait, balance, and overall mobility. As always, consult with healthcare professionals. Individuals can have these integrated into personalized treatment.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What is the primary goal of using non-elastic taping in stroke rehabilitation?

The primary goal of using non-elastic taping, such as Leukotape® P, in stroke rehabilitation is to improve joint alignment and enhance muscle activation. This is done to assist with motor function recovery in individuals who have experienced a stroke, particularly those who use assistive devices like canes. The study aimed to determine if this combined approach could lead to greater improvements compared to exercise alone.

What were the key areas measured to assess the effectiveness of non-elastic taping combined with exercise?

The study assessed several key areas to evaluate the effectiveness of the combined approach. These included gait performance, measured by cadence, step length, and walking speed; balance, assessed using the Berg Balance Scale; muscle strength, specifically of hip extensor and abductor muscles; endurance, measured using the 6-Minute Walk Test; and fear of falling, evaluated using the Fall Efficacy Scale. These measurements provided a comprehensive view of the impact of non-elastic taping and exercise on motor function and overall well-being in stroke survivors.

How did the study groups differ, and what interventions did they receive?

The study involved two groups: an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group received non-elastic taping with Leukotape® P in combination with an exercise program. The control group received sham taping (placebo) while also participating in the same exercise program. Both groups underwent a six-week exercise training program, with measurements taken at various points to assess the impact of the interventions.

What specific improvements were observed in the experimental group that received non-elastic taping and exercise?

The experimental group, which received non-elastic taping and exercise, showed notable improvements in several areas compared to the control group. These improvements included an increase in cadence, an extended stance time on the affected side, a better spatial asymmetry ratio, higher Berg Balance Scale scores, improved Fall Efficacy Scale scores, and enhanced performance in the 6-Minute Walk Test. These results collectively suggest that the combination of non-elastic taping and exercise led to enhanced gait, balance, and overall mobility.

Why is combining non-elastic taping with exercise considered a promising approach for stroke survivors using canes?

Combining non-elastic taping with exercise shows promise because it aims to address the limitations often seen in traditional rehabilitation programs, particularly in chronic stroke cases. The integration of non-elastic taping, such as Leukotape® P, is designed to improve joint alignment and enhance muscle activation, complementing the benefits of exercise. This combined approach was found to lead to greater improvements in gait, balance, and overall mobility in the experimental group. This suggests that incorporating non-elastic taping into rehabilitation protocols could enhance outcomes for stroke survivors, providing a more comprehensive and effective strategy for motor function recovery.