Blood flow restriction training significantly improved balance (SMD 0.33-2.72), patient-reported outcomes (SMD 0.04-2.84), and ankle strength in individuals with chronic ankle instability.
Meta-Analysis
Does blood flow restriction training improve balance, ankle strength, and patient-reported outcomes in individuals with chronic ankle instability?
Blood flow restriction training may serve as a beneficial rehabilitation adjunct to improve balance, strength, and perceived stability in patients with chronic ankle instability.
Effect estimate: SMD 0.33-2.72 (balance)
Abstract Objective Blood flow restriction (BFR) has demonstrated beneficial effects by enabling muscle growth and strength with lighter weights, thereby reducing joint stress. BFR training has been studied in various joints such as after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament, but its application in chronic ankle instability (CAI) remains underexplored. This systematic review aims to fill this gap by investigating the effects of BFR training on balance, ankle strength, and patient‐reported outcomes in individuals with CAI. Literature Survey A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus for randomized controlled trials published in English from 2000 onward. Studies were included if they examined BFR interventions in individuals with CAI. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. Methodology Two independent reviewers screened studies and extracted data. A random‐effects meta‐analysis synthesized outcomes related to balance, ankle strength, and self‐reported instability. Synthesis Nine trials met inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis revealed significant improvements in balance (standardized mean difference SMD = 0.33–2.72), patient‐reported outcomes (SMD = 0.04–2.84), and ankle strength (foot abduction SMD = 0.01–1.13; adduction SMD = 1.12–1.92). Substantial heterogeneity was observed, and most studies reported short‐term effects. Conclusions BFR training may improve balance, ankle strength, and perceived stability in individuals with CAI. These findings support its potential as a rehabilitation adjunct, but high‐quality trials are needed to confirm long‐term efficacy and guide clinical implementation. Registration PROSPERO CRD42025638559.
Lightle et al. (Sat,) conducted a meta-analysis in Chronic ankle instability (CAI). Blood flow restriction (BFR) training was evaluated on Balance, ankle strength, and patient-reported outcomes (SMD 0.33-2.72 (balance)). Blood flow restriction training significantly improved balance (SMD 0.33-2.72), patient-reported outcomes (SMD 0.04-2.84), and ankle strength in individuals with chronic ankle instability.