Application of Blood Flow Restriction Exercise in Knee Patients:Current Concepts Review
10.5763/kjsm.2024.42.3.165
- Author:
Sae Him KWON
1
;
Jung Wook LEE
;
Seung Ik CHO
;
Se Wong KIM
;
Byeong Sun PARK
;
Dhong Won LEE
Author Information
1. Knee Center, KonKuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Review Article
- From:The Korean Journal of Sports Medicine
2024;42(3):165-175
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
n patients who have undergone knee joint surgery or suffer from osteoarthritis, weakened quadriceps muscle strength is often observed. This can lead to various pathological issues in the long term, such as abnormal gait and persistent knee pain. Due to the need to protect against pain or surgical site complications, high-intensity exercise is often restricted for most patients with muscle atrophy in the knee joint due to surgery or osteoarthritis or surgery. To overcome this challenge, various methods are being attempted, including exercise combined with neuromuscular electrical stimulation, blood flow restriction (BFR) exercise, and biofeedback exercise. Recently, BFR exercise has garnered attention in line with these strategic trends. Applying low-intensity BFR exercise to patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery or suffer from knee joint osteoarthritis, most studies report improvements in strength, muscle mass, and functional enhancement of the knee joint. Compared to non-BFR high-intensity exercise, it has been reported that increases in maximal strength and muscle mass are similar, but pain reduction is superior with BFR exercise. Engaging in low-intensity BFR exercise for a sufficient duration can minimize the risk of injury associated with high-intensity exercise while maximizing the exercise’s effectiveness, leading to symptom improvement and enhancement of knee joint function. Furthermore, when conducted according to specified manuals, the likelihood of cardiovascular imbalance, muscle damage, thrombosis, and embolism due to BFR is low, making it a safe rehabilitation method.
