Low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction for military personnel with lower limb injuries

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) to alleviate pain and improve rehabilitation outcomes in UK military personnel suffering from lower limb injuries. The research aims to identify the optimal BFR exercise protocol that can reduce pain and enhance recovery, while also exploring the physiological mechanisms that contribute to these effects. Participants will undergo a three-week rehabilitation program at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, where their progress will be monitored and assessed.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Serving UK military personnel,
* Aged 18-55,
* Has unilateral lower limb injury whereby pain is the primary limiting factor hindering progression, as diagnosed by relevant consultant and team,
* Reduced occupational employability and function,
* Scheduled to attend DMRC Stanford Hall for 3 week residential rehabilitation course.

Exclusion Criteria:

MSK-Specific Exclusion Criteria

* Any medical contraindication related to BFR\*
* Non-musculoskeletal or serious pathological condition (i.e. Inflammatory arthropathy, infection or tumour)
* Spinal or referred pain from non-local pain source
* Any pre-diagnosed physical impairment or co-morbidities (including cardio-vascular disease) precluding the safe participation in the rehabilitation programme and/or assessment procedures
* Corticosteroid or analgesic injection intervention to the affected area within the previous 7 days
* Currently pregnant, or have not yet completed a return to work assessment following the birth of your child.

  \*Medical-Related Exclusion Criteria
* History of cardiovascular disease (hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, thrombosis/embolism, ischaemic heart disease, myocardial infarction),
* History of the following musculoskeletal disorders: rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis, severe osteoarthritis
* History of the following neurological disorders: Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson's disease, severe traumatic brain injury,
* Varicose veins in the lower limb,
* Acute viral or bacterial upper or lower respiratory infection at screening,
* Known or suspected lower limb chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) (tourniquet raises intra-compartmental muscle pressure),
* Surgical insertion of metal components at the position of cuff inflation,
* History of any of the following conditions or disorders not previously listed: diabetes, active cancer,
* History of elevated risk of unexplained fainting or dizzy spells during physical activity and/or exercise that causes loss of balance,
* Increased risk of haemorrhagic stroke, exercise induced rhabdomyolysis,
* Currently pregnant.

Where it's running

• Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, Stanford Hall
  Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Peter Ladlow, PhD — Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre, UK
• Study coordinator: Peter Ladlow, PhD
• Email: peter.ladlow100@mod.gov.uk
• Phone: +44 1509 251 500

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.