Improving upper body strength in elderly through blood flow restriction training

The Effect of Blood Flow Restrictive Exercise on Grip Strength and Upper Extremity Functions in Elderly Individuals

NA · Istanbul Medipol University Hospital · NCT05803733

This study is testing if a special training method that restricts blood flow can help older adults strengthen their upper body and improve their daily activities.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul Medipol University Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Istanbul, Beykoz)
Trial IDNCT05803733 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study focuses on enhancing upper extremity strength and performance in elderly individuals by utilizing blood flow restriction training (BFRT) over a period of six weeks. The intervention aims to counteract the natural decline in muscle strength and function associated with aging, which can lead to decreased independence and increased risk of disability. Participants aged 65 and older will engage in low-load resistance training combined with BFRT, while those with certain health conditions or recent upper extremity training will be excluded. The study seeks to assess improvements in handgrip strength and overall upper body function as key indicators of enhanced independence.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elderly individuals aged 65 and over who are looking to improve their upper body strength and function.

Not a fit: Patients with recent upper extremity injuries, certain health conditions, or those who have recently engaged in upper extremity weight training may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the quality of life and independence of elderly patients by enhancing their upper body strength.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with blood flow restriction training in various populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for the elderly.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants aged 65 and over who are classified as advanced age according to the World Health Organization
* Volunteer basis

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of acute trauma to the hand or wrist
* Scrapped upper extremity
* Patients with symptoms of shoulder or elbow pain and rheumatoid arthritis,
* Those who have participated in upper extremity weight training training in the last 6 months,
* Those taking sedatives
* Upper extremity venous thrombosis,
* Being at high risk for cardiovascular conditions that interfere with exercise, unexplained chest pain or heart disease, fainting or dizziness during physical activity/exercise

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Beykoz

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: Exercise Training, Blood Flow Restriction Training, Geriatrics, geriatrics, performance, muscle strength

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.