Improving quadriceps function after knee surgery with blood flow restriction training

Does Blood Flow Restriction Training Improve Quadriceps Function After Arthroscopic Knee Surgery? A Randomized Clinical Trial

NA · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT03096366

This study is testing if adding blood flow restriction training to physical therapy can help people recovering from knee surgery feel stronger and recover better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages14 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston (other)
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT03096366 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of combining physical therapy with blood flow restriction (BFR) training compared to physical therapy alone in patients recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The focus is on patients who are required to limit weight bearing after surgery. The study aims to assess patient-reported outcomes and functional testing to determine if BFR training can help mitigate quadriceps muscle atrophy and improve recovery outcomes. The hypothesis is that the addition of BFR training will enhance muscle strength and function during rehabilitation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals undergoing ACL reconstruction with additional meniscus or cartilage procedures who are expected to return to sports.

Not a fit: Patients who cannot participate in physical therapy or have conditions such as pregnancy or malignancy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved recovery and muscle function for patients after knee surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with blood flow restriction training in rehabilitation, suggesting potential effectiveness in this context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with concomitant meniscus or cartilage restoration procedures
* Adherence to modified weight bearing status before initiation of PT
* Expected participation in recreational or competitive sports after release to full activities

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to attend (or participate in) physical therapy
* Pregnancy
* Malignancy
* Fracture
* Peripheral vascular disease
* History of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Quadriceps Atrophy, ACL Reconstruction, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.