Local, Distal, Proximal, and Contralateral Effects of Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction Training on Upper Extremity Neuromuscular Performance of Healthy Women: a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial Protocol

Abstract

Introduction. Low-load blood flow restriction (BFR) training may induce positive neuromuscular adaptations, but proximal BFR effects are unclear. This study aims to investigate chronic effects of low-load resistance training (LLRT) with BFR on upper extremity neuromuscular performance of healthy women. Methods. This protocol for clinical trial will include 78 volunteers randomized into three groups of 26 participants: LLRT (LLRT without BFR); LLRT + placebo blood flow restriction (20% BFR); and LLRT + 60% BFR. All groups will perform four sets of 15 repetitions at 20% of one-repetition maximum for each of the following muscles: serratus anterior, lateral shoulder rotators, and lower trapezius. Participants will be assessed before protocol, after completing eight weeks of protocol, and after a fourweek follow-up. Primary outcome will be muscle strength, and secondary outcomes will be muscle excitation, perimetry, pain, subjective perceived exertion, affective valence with exercise, and power of upper extremity muscles. Discussion. Exercises are often used to prevent and treat upper limb disorders. However, only two studies analyzed the effects of these exercises associated with BFR. Therefore, this protocol aims to fill the gaps in these studies and propose more reliable results on the subject. Trial registration. EnsaiosClinicos.gov.br (Identifier: RBR-3pd52f).

Effects of Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction on Muscle Strength and Biomarkers in Older People: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials

“…Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a method that uses inflatable cuffs to partially generate arterial inflow and cause venous flow in the active musculature with gradual mechanical compression. The BFR can cater to older individuals and those with physical limitations by enabling the use of lighter loads, without compromising the outcomes of muscle strength and hypertrophy (8)(9)(10). The effects of BFR show an improvement in muscle strength and functional performance and an increase in muscle cross-section area.…”