Blood flow restriction training for rowers with low back pain
Breaking the Cycle of Low Back Pain: Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR) as a Targeted Intervention for Rowers
This project will test whether low-load blood flow restriction (LL-BFR) training helps high-volume adolescent rowers (ages 13–20) with mild or recurring low back pain as well as heavy-load training while reducing re-injury risk.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 20 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Loma Linda University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Loma Linda, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT07130812 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Participants complete a short web survey and baseline performance testing including a 2000‑meter rowing ergometer time trial, EMG measurements of hamstrings and quadriceps, and 1‑repetition maximum (1RM) strength tests for squat and deadlift. Rowers meeting eligibility are randomized into either a low‑load BFR program (20–30% 1RM, structured sets and reps) or a heavy‑load resistance training group and complete supervised training sessions. Outcomes include changes in 2000m time, muscular fatigue (EMG), strength (1RM), hamstring:quadriceps ratios, and abdominal endurance. The protocol targets whether LL‑BFR can produce comparable performance and strength gains with lower mechanical loading.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Active adolescent rowers aged 13–20 who train at least 3 days/week or 12 hours/week, have mild or recurring low back pain (low reactivity or affecting attendance), and can complete a 2000m ergometer test are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Individuals with severe or acute pain that limits movement, prior spinal surgery or structural spine conditions, or any contraindication to BFR (e.g., peripheral vascular disease, clotting disorders, uncontrolled hypertension, prior DVT) are unlikely to benefit or are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, LL-BFR could allow young rowers with mild low back pain to gain strength and maintain or improve performance while reducing exposure to heavy mechanical loads that might raise re-injury risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies in other populations have shown LL-BFR can produce strength gains similar to heavy-load training, but its application specifically in high-volume adolescent rowers with low back pain is relatively novel and less well studied.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 13-20 years old * Currently active rower (training ≥3 days/week or 12 hours/week) * Mild LBP with a low reactivity (\<3/10) or recurring LBP within the past 18 months that has affected attendance to team practices/races. * Able to complete a 2,000-meter rowing erg test Exclusion Criteria: * Have severe or acute back pain that limits basic movement or requires medical treatment * History of spinal surgery or structural spine conditions (scoliosis requiring bracing/surgery) * Have a contraindication to BFR training, identified via BFR safety screening form: * Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) * History of vascular surgery in arms or legs * Skin grafts on arms or legs * Arteriovenous fistula in limbs * Cognitive or physical impairment that limits participation * Hypertension or high blood pressure (uncontrolled or undiagnosed) * Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia) * Blood clotting disorders (e.g., lupus, factor-V Leiden) * Past history of DVT or pulmonary embolism (PE) * Surgery in the past 12 weeks * Recent limb immobilization (e.g., cast, boot) in the last 4 weeks * History of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) * History of cancer * Diagnosed heart disease * History of rhabdomyolysis * Diagnosed diabetes * Sickle cell disease * History of compartment syndrome * History of nerve damage or injury * Any prior complications or adverse reactions to BFR training * Any other medical conditions that should be cleared by a physician before starting BFR * Pregnancy(Self-reported)
Where this trial is running
Loma Linda, California
- Loma Linda University — Loma Linda, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Everett Lohman, Dsc — Loma Linda University
- Study coordinator: Everett Lohman, DSc
- Email: elohman@llu.edu
- Phone: (909) 558-1000
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.