Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Training Versus Pilates on Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Blood Flow Restriction Versus Pilates Exercises in Treatment of Patients With Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
Cairo University
48 participants
May 23, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS) is the most common cause of shoulder pain, accounting for a large proportion of musculoskeletal complaints. It is characterized by narrowing of the subacromial space, leading to pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and impaired shoulder function. Muscle weakness, especially of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, plays a major role in its pathomechanics. Although conventional strengthening exercises are effective, they are often delayed until pain subsides, which may prolong recovery. Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and Pilates exercises have recently emerged as promising approaches that may enhance strength and function during earlier, painful stages of rehabilitation. However, limited research has compared both interventions in patients with SAIS. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effectiveness of BFR training versus Pilates exercises, in addition to conventional therapy, on pain, function, range of motion, muscle strength, and proprioception in patients with painful SAIS.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria2
- - Age ranging from 18 to 55 years of both genders, with BMI ranging 18.5 to 29.9 Kg/m2 2. Clinically diagnosed with SIS, based on having ≥ 3 positive results of the following; pain during shoulder elevation and overhead activities, the painful arc, Neer impingement, Hawkins-Kennedy impingement, external rotation resistance, or empty can tests 3. Symptoms duration between 4 to 12 weeks (subacute and chronic phases)
- \. pain level should be ranged from 3 to 8 on the VAS .
Exclusion Criteria1
- - History of shoulder surgery, traumatic injury or systematic diseases 2. Any cervical problems as cervical disc \& any patient with radioculopathy. 3. Pregnancy. 4. Acute stage of subacromial impingement syndrome 5. Full thickness tear confirmed by the orthopaedist. 6. subjects shouldn't receive any physical therapy sessions in the past 3 months to minimize any confounders to treatment.
Interested in this trial?
Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.
Interventions
Participants will perform low-load resistance training combined with Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and include exercises for shoulder muscles with cuffs applied to the upper arm to partially restrict blood flow, ensuring safety and gradual load progression.
Participants will perform supervised Pilates exercises 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and include mat-based exercises, resistance band work, and equipment-assisted movements targeting shoulder mobility, stability, and posture. Exercises will be progressively adjusted according to participant tolerance and performance.
: Participants will perform standard Cool's exercises 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and focus on targeted shoulder rehabilitation movements designed to improve flexibility, muscle activation, and pain reduction. Exercises will be supervised and progressively adapted based on participant performance
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.
NCT07608809