The Effects of Kinesio Tape on Throwing Velocity and Accuracy in Division II Softball Players

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Kinesio Tape on throwing velocity, accuracy and range of motion looking at maximum external rotation and the angle of ball release with scapular stabilization. There is little research that looks at Kinesio Tape, female athletes and the dynamic movement of overhead throwing. 9 female NCAA Division II softball players participated in this study. Athletes were randomly assigned to the control group (no Kinesio Tape) or the experimental group (Kinesio Tape) at their first testing session. Each acted as their own control and performed 15 overhead throws, 20 feet from a target each session following a dynamic warmup. There was a 1.45mph increase in throwing velocity from the control, 47.76mph to 49.21 in the experimental group, but no statistically significant difference. There was a 92.78 point increase in throwing accuracy from the control, 81.11 points to 173.83 in the experimental group, but no statistically significant difference. There was a 6.37° increase in maximum external rotation from the control, 79.74° to 86.11° in the experimental group, but no statistically significant difference. There was a 1.17° increase in the angle of ball release from the control, 148.68° to 149.85° in the experimental group, but no statistically significant difference. In conclusion, there was an increase in throwing velocity and accuracy with the addition of Kenisio Tape, although not a statistical difference, it does show practical improvements in athletic performance in game play.