Using blood flow restriction therapy for Achilles injuries

Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Achilles Injury

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT04104126

This study tests whether combining blood flow restriction therapy with regular physical therapy can help people recover better from Achilles injuries.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment57 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT04104126 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy combined with standard physical therapy on patients recovering from Achilles injuries. BFR therapy involves a brief and partial restriction of venous outflow during low-load resistance exercises, aiming to enhance strength and rehabilitation outcomes. The study is prospective and randomized, focusing on how this innovative treatment approach can improve recovery for individuals diagnosed with Achilles injuries.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 who have been diagnosed with an Achilles injury and intend to receive physical therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with severe hypertension, impaired circulation, or those outside the age range of 18 to 65 may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly enhance rehabilitation outcomes for patients with Achilles injuries.

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

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosed with Achilles Injury
* Must be at least 18 years of age and younger than 65 years of age
* Intention to receive physical therapy as standard of care

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with intention to receive standard therapy and not the study therapy
* Patients with impaired circulation, peripheral vascular compromise, previous revascularization of the extremity, or severe hypertension
* Younger than 18 years of age or older than 65
* Legally incompetent or mentally impaired (e.g. minors, Alzheimer's subjects, dementia, etc.)
* Any patient considered a vulnerable subject

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 Injuries Tendon
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.