Description
Objective This study compared the effect of low-load blood flow restriction training (LL-BFRT) versus heavy-load resistance training (HLRT) on muscle strength, knee joint pain, knee joint effusion and range of motion.
Methods Patients planned for primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) were randomized into LL-BFRT or HLRT. Quadriceps and hamstring strength were measured at 60°/s, 180°/s and 300°/s two weeks before and 14 weeks after surgery. Knee joint pain (yes or no), knee joint effusion (yes or no) and range of motion were assessed 14 weeks after surgery. Range of motion included the evaluation of passive knee flexion less than 125 degrees and the inability to fully extend the knee.
Results Twenty-three out of 28 patients completed the study and were included for analysis. The baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups (p>0.05). A greater decrease in quadriceps strength at 60°/s (p=0.122), 180°/s (p=0.023) and 300°/s (p=0.065) was observed after LL-BFRT compared to HLRT. The change in hamstring strength at 60°/s, 180°/s and 300°/s were comparable between the groups (p>0.05). At final follow-up, fewer patients in the LL-BFRT group had knee joint pain (18.2% vs. 41.7%, p=0.222), knee joint effusion (9.1% vs. 41.7%, p=0.095), flexion deficit (9.1% vs. 33.3%, p=0.317) and extension deficit (0.0% vs. 16.7%, p=0.478) compared to the HLRT-group.
Conclusion This study showed that LL-BFRT after ACLR resulted in less quadriceps and similar hamstring strength compared to HLRT with beneficial effects on knee joint pain, knee joint effusion and range of motion.
