Does Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Patients Older Than Age 50 Result in Muscle Hypertrophy, Increased Strength, or Greater Physical Function? A Systematic Review

Clin Orthop Relat Res, 2020 · DOI: 10.1097/CORR.0000000000001090 · Published: December 18, 2019

Simple Explanation

Blood flow restriction (BFR) involves using inflatable cuffs to create vascular occlusion during exercise. This can stimulate muscle growth and improve physical function. This technique is being studied in older adults to see if it can help with muscle atrophy and physical decline that often occur after musculoskeletal injury or surgery. The review aims to understand the effects of BFR on muscle size, strength, and function specifically in individuals over 50 years old, considering the limitations of existing research.

Study Duration

Cross-sectional to 16 weeks

Participants

694 (males n = 205; females n = 455; sex not reported n = 34) adults older than 50

Evidence Level

Level II, systematic review

Key Findings

1
BFR, when combined with exercise, can lead to muscle hypertrophy as measured by various methods like muscle cross-sectional area and volume.
2
BFR has been shown to improve both muscle strength and functional performance in adults older than 50 years of age.
3
A notable portion of the studies reviewed had moderate to high risk of bias due to research design and participant randomization issues.

Research Summary

This systematic review examined the effects of blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy on muscle hypertrophy, strength, and physical function in adults older than 50 years. The review found evidence suggesting that BFR, when combined with exercise, may be beneficial for inducing muscle hypertrophy, increasing muscle strength, and improving muscle function in this population. The authors caution that many of the studies included in the review had moderate to high risk of bias, emphasizing the need for further research with larger sample sizes and randomized designs.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

BFR may be a useful tool in rehabilitation programs for older adults, particularly for those who cannot tolerate high-intensity resistance exercise.

Combating Muscle Atrophy

BFR could be employed to combat muscle atrophy in aging patients or those recovering from musculoskeletal injuries or surgeries.

Further Research

More rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal BFR protocols for older adults with various health conditions.

Does Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Patients Older Than Age 50 Result in Muscle Hypertrophy, Increased Strength, or Greater Physical Function? A Systematic Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

Combating Muscle Atrophy

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Does Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Patients Older Than Age 50 Result in Muscle Hypertrophy, Increased Strength, or Greater Physical Function? A Systematic Review

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Tool

Combating Muscle Atrophy

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?