Effectiveness of kinesiologic tape in the management of postoperative trismus, discomfort, and edema in mandibular fractures: a randomized controlled trial

Objective This study compared kinesiologic taping (KT) with conventional elastic adhesive bandaging in managing postoperative morbidity following open reduction and internal fixation. Study Design In this prospective, randomized controlled trial conducted at KLE Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital, 26 patients with unilateral mandibular fractures were allocated into two groups: Group 1 received an elastic adhesive bandage (n = 13) and Group 2 used KT (n = 13). Pain (Visual Analog Scale), facial swelling (standardized linear measurements), and maximum interincisal distance were recorded at baseline and on postoperative Days 2 and 5. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and independent t tests ( p < .05). Results The KT group showed significantly lower pain scores and reduced facial edema at Days 2 and 5 compared with controls ( P < .05). Trismus improved in both groups without significant intergroup differences. No adverse effects were observed. Conclusions KT is a safe and effective adjunct for reducing early postoperative pain and edema after mandibular fracture fixation. © 2026 Elsevier Inc.