Low-load blood flow restriction training as an alternative to heavy-load resistance training in early-stage rehabilitation following bone-patellar tendon-bone ACL reconstruction: a randomized controlled trial

Key Points

1. Low load blood flow restriction (BFR) training in early-stage rehabilitation following bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation (ACLR) shows similar results to heavy load resistance training over a 12-week period.

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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

The aim of early-stage ACL rehabilitation (ACLR) is to come out of this stage as unscathed as possible. Goals include well controlled joint effusion, well controlled pain, reasonably full range of motion, and a strong isometric quadriceps contraction that sets the stage for sufficient quadriceps recruitment as exercise intensity increases (1). Blood flow resistance (BFR) training is thought to provide a means for comparable levels of exercise adaptation with lower mechanical loads, decreased joint stress, and improved pain response (2).

The authors of this paper sought to find out the effects of low load BFR training versus heavy load resistance (HLR) training on quadriceps and hamstring strength following bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTPB) ACLR.

The goal of early-stage ACLR is to progress without setbacks by minimizing swelling and pain, restoring near-full range of motion, and establishing a strong quadriceps isometric contraction.

Blood flow restriction is a viable alternative to heavy load resistance for patients following bone-patellar tendon-bone ACLR and is a tool all orthopedic and sports clinicians should consider utilizing in their clinical practice.

METHODS

• 26 participants (mean age = 22) with isolated ACLR were included in the randomized controlled trial.

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