Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for Pain, Strength, Range of Motion, and Kinesiophobia Among ACL Reconstruction Patients.
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
46 participants
Jul 28, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This randomized clinical trial aims to compare the effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR) and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) on pain, quadriceps muscle strength, knee range of motion (ROM), and kinesiophobia in patients following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). ACLR patients commonly experience persistent muscle weakness, limited ROM, pain, and fear of movement, which can delay functional recovery and return to activity. A total of 46 participants (8-16 weeks post-ACLR) will be randomly allocated into two groups: a BFR group and an IASTM group. Both groups will receive interventions twice weekly for 8 weeks alongside standard physiotherapy. The BFR group will perform low-load resistance exercises under controlled vascular occlusion, while the IASTM group will receive soft tissue mobilization using specialized instruments combined with conventional rehabilitation. Outcome measures will include quadriceps strength (handheld dynamometer), pain (Numeric Pain Rating Scale), knee ROM (goniometer), and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia), assessed at baseline and post-intervention. The study aims to determine which intervention provides superior improvements in physical and psychological outcomes during early rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction.
Eligibility
Plain Language Summary
Simplified for easier understanding
This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.
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Interventions
Participants will receive Blood Flow Restriction Training as an adjunct to standard postoperative physiotherapy following ACL reconstruction. A pneumatic cuff will be applied to the proximal thigh at individualized occlusion pressure to allow low-load exercise under restricted blood flow conditions. The exercise program will include straight leg raises, quadriceps sets, and seated/short-arc knee extensions. Training will focus on low-load quadriceps strengthening to promote muscle activation and recovery. The intervention will be performed twice weekly for 8 weeks under physiotherapist supervision. Safety, pain response, and limb tolerance will be continuously monitored during all sessions.
Participants will receive Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization as an adjunct to standard postoperative physiotherapy following ACL reconstruction. Specialized stainless-steel instruments will be used to apply controlled mechanical pressure to soft tissues around the knee region. Treatment will target peri-patellar structures, quadriceps, hamstrings, and surrounding thigh musculature. The intervention aims to improve tissue mobility, reduce pain, and enhance range of motion. Sessions will be conducted twice weekly for 8 weeks under trained physiotherapist supervision. Each session will be standardized with continuous monitoring of pain response and treatment tolerance.
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NCT07662850