Effects of Blood Flow Restriction on Bone Health in ACL Injuries

The Effects of Bone Health on Landing Mechanics on Patients Post ACL Reconstruction.

Not applicable Interventional Parkview Health · NCT04682392

This study tests if adding Blood Flow Restriction to rehab can help athletes with ACL injuries keep their bones strong and recover better than with standard rehab alone.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 22 Years
SexAll
SponsorParkview Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (Fort Wayne, Indiana)
Trial IDNCT04682392 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) on bone density and functional performance in athletes with ACL tears. Participants are divided into two groups: one receiving standard rehabilitation without BFR and the other incorporating BFR into their rehabilitation. Both groups undergo regular Dexascan assessments to monitor bone mineral density and force plate measurements to evaluate squat and landing symmetry throughout the rehabilitation process. The goal is to determine if BFR can reduce bone mineral loss and enhance recovery outcomes compared to standard rehabilitation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are athletes aged 16-22 who have an MRI-confirmed ACL tear and are scheduled for reconstruction surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments, additional ligament injuries, or those who have previously used Blood Flow Restriction may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved bone health and recovery outcomes for athletes recovering from ACL injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of Blood Flow Restriction in rehabilitation is gaining attention, this specific approach focusing on bone health in ACL injuries is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Athletes undergoing ACL reconstruction with or without meniscal pathology
* MRI confirming ACL tear
* Athletes ages 16-22

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any Cognitively impaired athletes
* Athletes not in age range of 16-22
* Athletes who have additional ligament repair or chondral repair.
* Athletes with any weight bearing restrictions greater than 4 weeks.
* Athletes with re-tears or history of contralateral ACL tears
* Athletes with any systemic neuromuscular or balance disorders will not be allowed
* Athletes who do not or are unable to provide consent or assent (with Parental consent).
* Pregnant women will be excluded.
* Athlete who has previously used Blood Flow Restriction
* Athletes who are unable or unwilling to complete all rehabilitation with Parkview Athletic Rehab at SportONE Parkview Fieldhouse

Where this trial is running

Fort Wayne, Indiana

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 ACL TearBlood Flow Restriction
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.