Effects of Eccentric and Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Training on Muscle Strength and Function in Adults with Knee Osteoarthritis Aged 40 to 70

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of eccentric and low-load blood flow restriction training on muscle and functional abilities in people with knee osteoarthritis KOA, a common chronic joint disease causing pain, stiffness, and disability. KOA affects millions worldwide, especially adults aged 40 and older, leading to difficulties in daily activities such as walking and climbing stairs. This study focuses on improving neuromuscular function, muscle strength, and functional performance in this population. The trial compares two types of exercise programs eccentric gastrocnemius strengthening exercises and low-load blood flow restriction LL-BFR training. Both interventions involve specific exercises targeting the gastrocnemius muscle, performed three times per week for four weeks. The eccentric training includes heel drops, leg press calf lowering, and stair descent exercises with varying sets and reps, while the LL-BFR training adds controlled vascular occlusion with a cuff inflated to 50-70% during exercises. Participants will undergo assessments at the start and after four weeks, including surface electromyography to measure muscle activation, as well as tests for osteoarthritis symptoms WOMAC, mobility Timed Up and Go, and muscle endurance Heel Raise Endurance Test. The study monitors changes in neuromuscular adaptations, muscle strength, functional performance, and disability to evaluate the impact of these exercise methods over the one-month intervention period.

Eccentric vs Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Training in Knee Osteoarthritis in Knee Osteoarthritis