Could kinesiology taping help mitigate pain, breathlessness and abdominal-related symptoms in cancer?

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Feb 24:2017:bcr2016216695. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-216695.

Abstract

We present the case of a woman who was an amateur athlete diagnosed with primary breast cancer, and 10 years later with terminal metastatic cancer. This case report was prepared posthumously in co-operation with her next of kin (husband). The patient first presented to a sports physiotherapist (AR) for her pain-management and to help maintain physical fitness so that she could continue with sports and an active lifestyle. The patient continued with physiotherapy for several months to enable her to be active. However, when her health deteriorated significantly due to advancing cancer, the treatment was modified and aimed at improving the patient's general well-being. The physiotherapist applied kinesiology tape over the patient's lower rib cage, diaphragm and abdomen in an attempt to manage pain, breathlessness and abdominal bloating. The patient reported alleviation of pain, breathlessness, abdominal discomfort and nausea, accompanied by improvements in eating, drinking, energy levels and physical function.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Adult
  • Athletic Tape*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Diaphragm
  • Dyspnea / therapy*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Nausea / therapy*
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Pain Management / methods*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Quality of Life
  • Ribs