Why the study?
The study evaluated the effect of blood flow restriction therapy conducted both before and after ACL reconstruction on early quadriceps strength and patient-reported outcomes.
Does blood flow restriction therapy improve early quadriceps strength and patient reported outcomes in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction?
Population
43 patients presenting with an ACL tear
Comparison
Blood flow restriction therapy before and after ACL reconstruction vs control
Design
Randomized controlled trial
Follow-up
6 weeks post-surgery
Authors
Loading...
BFR improved early PROs without quadriceps strength gains after ACLR; extends pre/post-op evidence but leaves strength-PRO disconnect open for further study.
Does blood flow restriction therapy improve early quadriceps strength and patient reported outcomes in patients undergoing ACL reconstruction?
Blood flow restriction therapy before and after ACL reconstruction improves early patient-reported outcomes at 6 weeks, though it does not significantly increase objective quadriceps strength in the short term.
Khalil et al. (2022) studied this question.