Key result
Blood flow restriction training showed contradictory results regarding tendon adaptation, but generally decreased pain, increased strength, and improved function in tendon rehabilitation.
Why the study?
Certain populations do not tolerate high-load resistance training well, and the effects of low-load blood flow restriction training on healthy and pathological tendons remain unknown.
Does blood flow restriction training improve tendon adaptation and rehabilitation outcomes in healthy individuals and patients with tendon disorders?
Population
19 studies with 351 healthy subjects and 122 individuals with tendon-related disorders
Comparison
Blood flow restriction training vs HLRT, LLRT, or other conditions
Design
Scoping review based on PRISMA guidelines
Authors
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Supports BFRT for pain relief, strength, and function in tendon rehab; leaves open effects on tendon adaptation.
Systematic Review (n=473)
Does blood flow restriction training improve tendon adaptation and rehabilitation outcomes in healthy individuals and patients with tendon disorders?
Blood flow restriction training may be a viable alternative to high-load resistance training for tendon adaptation and rehabilitation, though current evidence on tendon-specific morphological outcomes remains contradictory.
Schewelov et al. (2025) conducted a systematic review in Tendon adaptation and tendon rehabilitation (n=473). Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) vs. High-load resistance training (HLRT), low-load resistance training (LLRT), or control was evaluated on Tendon adaptation (thickness, cross-sectional area, stiffness) and rehabilitation outcomes (pain, strength, function). Blood flow restriction training showed contradictory results regarding tendon adaptation, but generally decreased pain, increased strength, and improved function in tendon rehabilitation.
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