Using blood flow restriction therapy after Achilles tendon surgery

Effect of Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Rehabilitation After Achilles Tendon Rupture Reconstruction

Not applicable Interventional The Methodist Hospital Research Institute · NCT06254794

This study tests if adding blood flow restriction therapy to regular physical therapy helps people recover better after Achilles tendon surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment19 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe Methodist Hospital Research Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT06254794 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy combined with standard physical therapy for patients recovering from Achilles tendon rupture surgery. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the BFR therapy group or a control group receiving only standard physical therapy. The study aims to assess outcomes such as muscle atrophy, range of motion, strength, and the time taken to return to physical activity. Measurements will be taken at various intervals post-surgery to evaluate the impact of the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with a confirmed Achilles tendon rupture who are undergoing surgical repair.

Not a fit: Patients with obesity, diabetes, or other significant health issues may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to faster recovery times and improved physical outcomes for patients recovering from Achilles tendon surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with blood flow restriction therapy in various rehabilitation contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Achilles Rupture confirmed by MRI or Thompson Test
* Adult
* Receiving Percutaneous Achilles Repair System (PARS) or open repair
* Proposed PT with Methodist Location

Exclusion Criteria:

* Obesity (BMI\>35)
* Diabetes
* Cardiovascular, renal, liver or pulmonary disease
* Active infections
* Cancer (current or treated within the past 2 years) or coagulation disorder
* Physically unable to participate in the intervention
* Unable to complete a minimum of 85% of the assigned rehabilitation sessions
* Less than 18 years of age
* Pregnant

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.
Conditions Achilles Tendon Ruptureachilles tendon ruptureblood flow restriction
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.