Blood Flow Restriction

Effects of Blood-Flow Restricted Exercise in Musculoskeletal Disorders

 

Overview

This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the impact of low-load blood flow restricted resistance training (BFR-RT) versus high-load resistance training (HL-RT) on various outcomes in clinical musculoskeletal populations.

Findings

• BFR-RT and HL-RT demonstrated similar gains in:
  • Dynamic knee extensor strength
  • Leg press strength
  • Quadriceps cross-sectional area
  • Sit-to-stand performance
  • Patient-reported pain and function

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy

• Both BFR-RT and HL-RT can be effective in improving muscle strength and function in musculoskeletal disorders.
• Physiotherapists may consider incorporating blood flow restricted exercise as an alternative to high-load resistance training.

References

1. Jørgensen, S. L., Kierkegaard-Brøchner, S., Bohn, M. B., et al. (2023). Effects of blood-flow restricted exercise versus conventional resistance training in musculoskeletal disorders—a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, 15, 141. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-023-00750-z
   • Link to Full Article: Link

Neural Adaptations Following Blood Flow Restriction Training

 

Overview

This study reviewed the long-term effects of low-load blood flow restricted (BFR) exercise on neural markers, encompassing central and peripheral adaptations.

Findings

• LL-BFR resulted in enhanced levels of muscle excitation compared to LL training.

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy

• Incorporating LL-BFR in rehabilitation programs may enhance neural adaptations, potentially improving outcomes in musculoskeletal disorders.

References

2. Centner, C., & Lauber, B. (2020). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Neural Adaptations Following Blood Flow Restriction Training: What We Know and What We Don’t Know. Frontiers in Physiology, 11, 887. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2020.00887
   • Link to Full Article: Link

Blood Flow Restriction in Oncological Rehabilitation

 

Overview

A meta-analysis exploring the benefits of blood flow restriction in oncological rehabilitation.

Findings

• Blood flow restriction was beneficial in improving:
  • Quality of life
  • Physical function
  • Strength
  • Lean mass
• Reducing postoperative complications and hospital stay length.

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy

• Blood flow restriction can be a valuable addition to oncological rehabilitation, addressing multiple aspects of patient well-being.

References

3. Vinolo-Gil, M. J., García-Campanario, I., Estebanez-Pérez, M. J., Pastora-Bernal, J. M., Rodríguez-Huguet, M., & Martín-Vega, F. J. (2021). Blood Flow Restriction in Oncological Patients: Advantages and Safety Considerations. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(14), 2062. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11142062
   • Link to Full Article: Link

Blood Flow Restriction Resistance Training as an Alternative

 

Overview

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of blood flow restriction resistance training as an alternative to high-load resistance training.

Findings

• Blood flow restriction resistance training can be an effective alternative to high-load resistance training.

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy

• Physiotherapists may consider incorporating blood flow restriction resistance training as a viable alternative, potentially catering to patient preferences or limitations.

References

4. Mallmann, A. L. S., dos Santos, L. P., Doria, L. D., Ferreira, L. F., Ramis, T. R., & da Rosa, L. H. T. (2023). Blood flow restriction resistance training as an alternative to resistance training alone to improve strength in elderly: a systematic review with meta-analysis. MedRxiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.01.19.23284773
   • Link to Full Article: Link

Systemic Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training

 

Overview

Reviewing the systemic effects of blood flow restriction training on cardiovascular, endocrinological, musculoskeletal, and psychosocial outcomes.

Findings

• Positive or neutral effects observed across various systemic outcomes.

Clinical Implications for Physiotherapy

• Blood flow restriction training may offer a holistic approach in addressing diverse health aspects, supporting comprehensive patient care in physiotherapy.

References

5. Miller, B. C., Tirko, A. W., Shipe, J. M., Sumeriski, O. R., Moran, K. (2021). The Systemic Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 16(4). https://doi.org/10.26603/001c.25791
   • Link to Full Article: Link