Actively Recruiting
Effectiveness of Blood Flow Restriction in Postoperative Rehabilitation for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries A Pilot Study
Led by University of Valencia · Updated on 2026-03-05
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
The trial investigates the effectiveness of adding Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) therapy to a standard rehabilitation program for patients recovering after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair surgery. It aims to determine whether combining BFR with rehabilitation improves functional recovery, muscle strength, and reduces recovery time compared to rehabilitation alone. The study specifically focuses on athletes and others aged 18 to 45 who have undergone ACL reconstruction. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group follows a standardized rehabilitation protocol including four phases: early recovery, strength and neuromuscular control, agility and landing mechanics, and return to sport. The other group follows the same protocol but adds BFR therapy during the strength and neuromuscular control phase (weeks 2 to 12). BFR involves applying a pneumatic cuff to the thigh to restrict blood flow to 70-80% arterial occlusion while performing low-intensity resistance exercises. Both groups receive weekly supervised sessions from trained Physical Therapists. Participants will be assessed before starting and at 2, 6, and 12 weeks after surgery, with the intervention lasting 12 weeks. Researchers will measure pain intensity, muscle strength, range of motion, fear of movement, quality of life, and functional performance. The study includes close monitoring during therapy sessions, and the total outcome evaluation extends up to 24 weeks post-intervention to observe recovery progress.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Effectiveness of Blood Flow Restriction in Postoperative Rehabilitation for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries. A Pilot Study.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Patients aged between 18 and 45 years
- Patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery
You will not qualify if you...
- Cardiovascular comorbidities
- Severe metabolic disorders or postoperative complications
- Previous joint disorders requiring surgery on the affected leg
- Pregnancy
- Coagulation disorders
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 24 weeks
Participants undergo a standardized post-operative rehabilitation protocol for ACL reconstruction recovery over 24 weeks. Those in the experimental group receive additional Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) therapy during weeks 2 to 12 alongside rehabilitation exercises.
Weekly supervised visits during the first 12 weeks
Duration - Up to 24 weeks post-surgery
Participants are evaluated for recovery outcomes including pain, strength, range of motion, kinesiophobia, quality of life, and functional performance up to 24 weeks post-surgery.
Assessments at baseline and at 2, 6, and 12 weeks post-surgery
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Faculty of Physiotherapy
Valencia, Valencia, Spain, 46010
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
B
Borja Perez-Dominguez, Ph.D.
E
Enrique Falco-Crespo, PT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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