Blood flow restriction training for shoulder pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot clinical trial aims to evaluate the safety and feasibility of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in patients experiencing subacromial shoulder pain. Participants will undergo physical therapy sessions incorporating BFRT over an 8-week period, with assessments conducted before, during, and after the intervention. The study will compare the effects of active BFRT against a sham procedure to determine its impact on shoulder function and strength. The investigators will also explore any challenges participants face while training with BFRT.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion criteria

* Between 18 and 50 years of age
* Unilateral pain in the anterolateral shoulder
* Self-reported shoulder function of ≤7 (10, full function)
* At least 90° of active shoulder elevation
* 3 out of 5 positive tests to define subacromial pain.

Exclusion Criteria (general):

* history of shoulder fracture, frozen shoulder, or shoulder surgery
* primary complaint of shoulder instability/dislocation
* history of cardiovascular, neurologic, and pulmonary conditions that would impair the subject's ability to participate in physical therapy
* active treatment for cancer
* uncontrolled diabetes
* uncontrolled high blood pressure
* corticosteroid injection at the shoulder within 6 weeks
* imaging evidence of rotator cuff tears
* pregnancy

Exclusion criteria (Blood flow restriction training specific)

* contraindications to BFRT (sickle cell anemia, deep vein thrombosis, peripheral circulatory diseases)
* taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs

Where it's running

• University of Florida
  Gainesville, Florida, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Federico Pozzi, PT, MA, PhD
• Email: fpozzi@phhp.ufl.edu
• Phone: (352) 273-6957

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.