Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Elbow Ligament Thickness
Outcomes of Blood Flow Restriction Training on the Ulnar Collateral Ligament
This study is testing if low-intensity exercises with blood flow restriction can make the elbow ligament thicker and stronger in healthy volunteers.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Methodist Hospital Research Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06664827 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the impact of blood flow restriction (BFR) training on the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in healthy volunteers. Participants will engage in low-intensity resistance exercises with BFR twice a week for eight weeks, focusing on changes in ligament thickness and joint space laxity in the dominant arm. The study will assess arm strength and use sonography to measure ligament characteristics before and after the intervention. The goal is to determine if BFR exercises can enhance ligament properties and strength.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy volunteers aged 18-50 who can commit to the exercise program.
Not a fit: Patients with current or recent injuries to the hand, elbow, or shoulder, or those with vascular issues will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into effective training methods for improving ligament health and strength in healthy individuals.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific application of BFR in this context is novel, there is existing research indicating potential benefits of BFR training in various populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy volunteer * Agree to complete all exercise sessions and program in its entirety * Between the ages of 18-50 years old Exclusion Criteria: * Current or recent injury of the hand, elbow, or shoulder * Outside of the ages of 18-50 years old * Vascular compromise or previous vascular surgery * History of DVT * Current participation in other BFR research study * Currently participating in a structured strength training program * Any musculoskeletal conditions resulting in inability to exercise * Participants may not be collegiate/professional baseball/softball players * Vulnerable populations
Where this trial is running
Houston, Texas
- Houston Methodist Hospital — Houston, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Haley Goble, MHA
- Email: hmgoble@houstonmethodist.org
- Phone: 713-441-3930
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.