Effectiveness of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation versus Low-Load Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction in Older Individuals with Sarcopenia

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction (LLRT-BFR) on increasing muscle mass and improving quality of life in older adults with sarcopenia. Materials and Methods: Sixty sarcopenic elderly participants were involved. All participants of this eight-week interventional study were divided randomly/equally into three groups. Participants in group A (NMES group) underwent NMES therapy targeting their bilateral quadriceps. Each session lasted 30 minutes and was conducted three times weekly. Participants in group B (LLRT-BFR group) performed 30-minute low-load resistance training of the quadriceps at 30% of their one-repetition maximum with blood flow restriction. LLRT-BFR was applied using a 12-cm pneumatic cuff placed around the proximal thigh and inflated to 50% of limb occlusion pressure. Treatment was conducted three times weekly. Participants in group C (control group) received a placebo 3-session 30-minute NMES weekly on bilateral quadriceps. Skeletal muscle index (SMI, assessed via bioelectrical impedance analysis), time up and go test (TUGT), physical summary component of 36-item short form survey of quality of life (PSCSFQoL), strength of right and left quadriceps, and mental summary component of 36-item short form survey of quality of life (MSCSFQoL) were assessed. Results: NMES group and LLRT-BFR group showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) in MSCSFQoL, SMI, strength of right and left quadriceps, TUGT, and PSCSFQoL. The highest improvements were recorded in LLRT-BFR group. Comparison of post values of all outcomes between LLRT-BFR group and NMES group did not show any significant difference. Control group did not show a significant difference in all outcomes. Conclusions: Both NMES and LLRT-BFR were effective in improving physical functions, skeletal muscle functions/strength, and life quality in older adults with sarcopenia.