STUDY DESIGN: Single-blinded randomized controlled pilot study. OBJECTIVES: To examine the changes in pectoralis minor length (PML), the supine measurement of rounded shoulder posture (RSP), and the total scapular distance (TSD) in seated male workers with RSP, after rounded-shoulder-taping (RST) using Kinesiology Tape with (experimental taping) and without stretch (placebo taping). BACKGROUND: RSP, a postural impairment, is a known cause of upper quarter pain. METHODS: Fourteen men with RSP, who worked for at least 7 h/d in a seated position, were selected for RST, with the shoulders randomly assigned to two Kinesiology Taping methods: (1) with 35 to 40% stretch of its original length; and (2) without stretch. The PML, supine measurements of RSP, and TSD, before and after Kinesiology Taping, with and without stretch, were assessed. RESULTS: Kinesiology Taping with stretch significantly increased the PML and significantly decreased the supine measurement of RSP and TSD; Kinesiology Taping without stretch did not increase the PML significantly and did not decrease the supine measurement of RSP and TS. CONCLUSION: RST using Kinesiology Tape with stretch produces immediate mechanical correction of RSP in seated male workers.

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