OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect comparison of Kinesio Taping on chronic non-specific low back pain with that of other general physical therapies. METHODS: Relevant studies published up to 31 July 2018 were searched in electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), Cochrane Library, Wanfang Data, Vip Data and China National Knowledge Infrastructure). The quality of included studies was assessed using a risk of bias assessment tool, as recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. Data from visual analogue scales and Oswestry Disability Index were extracted as selected outcome indicators. Tests of heterogeneity were performed. Weighted mean difference (WMD) data with its 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were used as a measure of effect sizes, in order to pool the results from each included study using either a fixed or random effects model (where appropriate and possible). RESULTS: Eight studies fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of included studies was moderate. Patients with chronic non-specific low back pain in the Kinesio Taping group achieved better pain relief (WMD -1.22; 95%CI -1.49 to -0.96, I2 = 91%, p < 0.00001) and activities of daily living (WMD -7.11; 95% CI -8.70 to -5.51, I2 = 77%, p < 0.0001) than those in the control group. CONCLUSION: Kinesio Taping, separately or in combination with other general physical therapies, is superior to other general therapies or placebo taping for treatment of chronic non-specific low back pain with greater pain relief and improvement in activities of daily living.

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