Effect of Kinesio Tape Application and Stretching Exercises on Calf Cramps During Pregnancy

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of kinesio-tape application and stretching exercise on calf muscle cramp during pregnancy

Up to 30% to 50% of pregnant women suffered from leg cramps, especially in the third trimester. Almost two-thirds of these women experience leg cramps twice per week and they can occur at any time, particularly at night.In mild and moderate cases, calf cramps may last for seconds, but in severe cases, leg cramps in pregnancy may last for minutes .In many cases calf cramps are very painful , which can affect daily activities, restrict exercise and performance, motive sleep disturbance and reduce the quality of life.Non-drug treatments are found to being effective for the treatment of muscle cramps. Non-drug treatments such as muscle stretching, physical exercise, avoidance of physical fatigue, massage, relaxation, heat therapy, weight loss, sensory nerve stimulation, ankle splints worn while sleeping, and changes to sleeping and sitting positions.This study has two groups; one recieved kinesio-tape application and stretching exercises and the second one recieved instructions about dealing with cramps with self low sustained stretch

the patient received A"Ystrip"of KT was applied to the testing leg 30% tension for 48h and was asked to assume comfortable supine position and the therapist applied 15 seconds of passive stretch to the calf muscle followed by 30 seconds of rest and this exercise was repeated 6 times per session for 2 days and ecieved instructions about dealing with calf cramps with self low sustained stretch of calf muscle.

the patient recieved instructions about dealing with calf cramps with self low sustained stretch of calf muscle.

KT is comprised of a polymer elastic strand warped by 100% cotton fibers and designed to allow a longitudinal stretch of 55-60% of its resting length.

Inclusion Criteria: pregnant women who are suffering from calf cramps. Their age range from 25 to 35 years. Their body mass index range from 25 to 29.9 kg/m2 . Exclusion Criteria: Skin abnormalities (skin malignancy in the treated area or burned). History of previous back surgery. Neuromuscular diseases like multiple sclerosis. Sensory disturbances. Evidence of previous vertebral fractures or major spinal structural abnormality, spondylolisthesis or spinal stenosis. Systemic disease of musculoskeletal system. Viscerogenic cause of back pain. Also, women who have eclampsia or pre-eclampsia.