Comparing pneumatic compression and blood flow restriction for muscle recovery

Comparing the Effects of Pneumatic Compression and Blood Flow Restriction Therapy on Muscle Recovery

Not applicable Interventional University of Southern California · NCT06815367

This study tests whether pneumatic compression or blood flow restriction helps young, active people recover better from muscle soreness after exercise.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment33 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
Trial IDNCT06815367 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of two recovery methods, pneumatic compression and blood flow restriction (BFR), in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) following exercise-induced muscle damage. Participants aged 18-30 who are recreationally active will be enrolled to assess which method better enhances recovery. The pneumatic compression method mimics a massage by applying and releasing pressure on the limb, while BFR involves using pressurized cuffs to restrict blood flow. The goal is to determine which technique is more effective in alleviating symptoms of DOMS.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are recreationally active individuals aged 18-30 without any current musculoskeletal injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, cancerous lesions, or those who routinely train for trail running may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with effective recovery techniques to reduce muscle soreness after exercise.

How similar studies have performed: While both pneumatic compression and blood flow restriction have been used in recovery, this study aims to directly compare their effectiveness, making it a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-30 years of age
* Recreationally active population
* Women should be on a form of hormonal contraception.
* No current musculoskeletal injuries or pathologies
* Must answer "yes" to all PAR-Q questions.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals that routinely train trail running
* Discomfort when running
* Deep vein thrombosis
* Blood clots
* Cancerous lesions
* Sensory or mental impairment
* Unstable fractures
* Acute pulmonary edema
* Acute thrombophlebitis
* Acute congestive cardiac failure
* Acute infections
* Episodes of pulmonary embolism
* Wounds, lesions, infection, or tumors
* Bone fractures or dislocations
* Increased venous and lymphatic return
* Answers "no" to any of the PAR-Q screening questions

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.