Kinesio Taping versus Dry Needling on Pain and Range of Motion Post-Thyroidectomy

Background: Postoperative neck pain and restricted cervical range of motion are common complications following total thyroidectomy. Effective physiotherapeutic strategies are essential for restoring function and minimizing discomfort. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of dry needling and kinesio taping, both combined with conventional physiotherapy, on pressure pain threshold and cervical range of motion in post-thyroidectomy patients. Patients and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 patients who had undergone total thyroidectomy. Participants were randomly assigned to either a dry needling group or a kinesio taping group. Both groups received the respective intervention three times weekly for four weeks, in addition to a standardized physiotherapy regimen. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) and cervical range of motion (CROM) were assessed pre- and post-intervention using digital algometry and goniometry.
Results: Both groups exhibited statistically significant improvements in PPT and CROM post treatment (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between groups in most variables, except for neck flexion, where dry needling demonstrated a greater improvement (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Dry needling and kinesio taping are both effective in reducing pain and improving cervical mobility post-thyroidectomy. Dry needling may offer additional benefits in enhancing flexion ROM. These findings support the integration of either technique into rehabilitation protocols for post-thyroidectomy patients.