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Int J Sports Med 2019; 40(10): 650-656
DOI: 10.1055/a-0961-1434
Training & Testing
© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction to Improve Quadriceps Function Long After ACL Reconstruction

Matthew A. Kilgas
1   Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, United States
2   School of Health and Human Performance, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, United States
,
Lydia L.M. Lytle
1   Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, United States
3   Physical Therapy, Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital, Laurium, United States
,
Scott N. Drum
2   School of Health and Human Performance, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, United States
,
Steven J. Elmer
1   Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History



accepted 17 June 2019

Publication Date:
23 July 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Quadriceps atrophy and weakness can persist for years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). We evaluated the effectiveness of a home-based blood flow restriction (BFR) exercise program to increase quadriceps size and strength several years after ACLR. Nine adults with ACLR (5±2 yrs post-surgery, ≤90% symmetry in quadriceps size and strength) and nine uninjured controls volunteered. ACLR participants exercised at home for 25 min, 5×/wk for 4 wks (single-leg knee extension, bodyweight half-squats, walking). Blood flow in only the involved leg was restricted using a thigh cuff inflated to 50% of limb occlusion pressure. Rectus femoris and vastus lateralis thickness and knee extensor strength were measured before and after training. Baseline and post-training symmetry (involved leg/uninvolved leg) indices were compared to uninjured controls. Rectus femoris and vastus lateralis thickness and knee extensor strength in the involved leg increased by 11±5%, 10±6%, and 20±14%, respectively (all P<0.01). Compared to baseline, post-training knee extensor strength symmetry increased from 88±4 to 99±5% (P<0.01) and did not differ from uninjured controls (99±5%, P=0.95). Implementation of BFR exercise at home was feasible, safe and effective. Results extend upon early post-operative application of BFR exercise for ACLR recovery and demonstrate that BFR can improve quadriceps function long after ACLR.

Key words

anterior cruciate ligament injury - quadriceps weakness - limb asymmetry - BFR exercise
 

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