Blood flow restriction training improved function and reduced restless leg syndrome symptoms in an individual with Parkinson’s disease

In April 2018 researchers from the USA published the results of their study which assessed the effect of blood flow restriction training in a 65-year-old male recreational boxer diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.  The training consisted of 5 x two-minute bouts of walking on a treadmill with lower extremity blood flow restriction cuffs interspersed with a minute’s rest, three times a week for six weeks, at 0 grade incline, and at a speed of 50 meters/min. At the end of this initial phase the individual then undertook the same exercise for a period of four weeks, but this time without the blood flow restriction cuffs. Every two weeks during the period of the study the individual underwent a Timed Up and Go Test, 6-Minute Walk Test, 30-Second Chair Stand Test, and completed the restless leg syndrome questionnaire. Results showed that all assessments improved during the 6-week training phase and then steadily declined during the second 4-week phase when the blood flow restriction cuffs were removed.

Douris PC et al. The effects of blood flow restriction training on functional improvements in an active single subject with Parkinson disease.  Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2018 Apr;13(2):247-254

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