Effectiveness of Blood Flow Restriction Training Versus Resistive Exercises on Pain, Strength of Quadriceps Muscle, Physical Function in Osteoarthritic Knee Patients

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA), is degenerative condition of knee joint which is more prevalent. Various treatments are available for OA knee. Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFRT) is effective training using low-load so that the excessive fatigue and strenuous exercises for strengthening muscles could be avoided which prevails more in Resisted exercises. This study is to assess effectiveness of BFRT on long term symptoms relief for patients with OA Knee. Objective: To assess effect of BFRT on pain, muscle strength and Quality of life of OA knee patients. Method: Randomly 46 participants were allocated in conventional and experimental Groups. The intervention to both groups was given for 1 week daily and the outcomes taken pre and post intervention were NPRS, 1RM strength, WOMAC scale and girth measurement. Results: Statistical significant difference was found in both the groups with p-values <0.05 for all the outcomes in within the group comparisons. In between the group comparisons, BFRT found to have more significance in mean difference compared to resisted exercises for all the outcome parameters. Conclusion: It was concluded that BFRT has more effectiveness in reducing pain, improving strength, girth of muscle and physical function compared to simple resistive exercises in patients with Osteoarthritis of knee. Key words: BFRT, OA knee, pain, physical function, Resisted exercise, strength