Low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction for Achilles tendon pain
Effects of Low-load Resistance Training With Blood Flow Restriction in Patients With Achilles Tendinopathy
NA · University of Gran Rosario · NCT05241197
This study is testing whether low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction can help people with chronic Achilles tendon pain feel better compared to regular high-load training.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 52 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Gran Rosario (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Rosario, Santa Fe Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT05241197 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effects of low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR-LLT) compared to high-load training (HLT) in patients suffering from chronic midportion Achilles tendinopathy (MAT). A total of 52 participants aged 18 to 50 will be randomly assigned to either the BFR-LLT or HLT group, undergoing a 12-week rehabilitation program with assessments of pain, tendon thickness, and function at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. The training will be conducted at the University of Gran Rosario, with evaluations performed by a blinded physiotherapist to ensure objectivity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 50 with a clinical diagnosis of unilateral midportion Achilles tendinopathy lasting more than 3 months.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of ankle or foot surgery, systemic disorders, or those unable to perform the required exercises may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a safer and more effective rehabilitation method for patients with Achilles tendinopathy.
How similar studies have performed: While low-load training with blood flow restriction has shown promise in other contexts, its application specifically for tendon pathology like Achilles tendinopathy is relatively novel and untested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of unilateral MAT. * Achilles pain \> 3 months. * Age ranging between 18 to 50 years, both genders. * Read and speak Spanish well enough to provide informed consent and follow study instructions. * Can attend in-clinic treatments 2-3 x weekly for the next 12 weeks. Exclusion Criteria: * Any ankle or foot surgery. * History of Achilles rupture. * Heel pain in the last 3 months. * Systemic disorders/diseases. * History of deep venous thrombosis, hypertension or blood clotting disorder. * Body mass index \> 30kg/m2. * Self-report of pregnancy. * Drug use (local steroid injection or systemic fluoroquinolones). * Pain \< 2/10 of average pain on NPRS. * VISA A score \> 90%. * Unable to perform any of the exercises of the study.
Where this trial is running
Rosario, Santa Fe Province
- University of Gran Rosario — Rosario, Santa Fe Province, Argentina (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gonzalo Elias, PT — University of Gran Rosario
- Study coordinator: Gonzalo Elias, PT
- Email: gelias@ugr.edu.ar
- Phone: 543416051190
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.
Conditions: Achilles Tendinopathy, Achilles Tendon Pain, Tendon Injuries, Blood Flow Restriction, Rehabilitation