Browsing by Author "Villanova, Brianna"

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    BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING: A CASE STUDY
    (2025-04-17) Artkop, Kyle; Goodwin, Payton; Palmer, Emelia; Villanova, Brianna; Scott, Wayne
    The following study was conducted to determine the efficacy of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in improving residual quadriceps weakness as an alternative therapeutic intervention for increasing knee strength and stability. The participant demonstrated persistent quadriceps weakness despite previous physical therapy interventions for a MCL and medial meniscus tear of the knee. Two sessions per week for eight weeks of BFRT were performed on the involved quadriceps, utilizing a tourniquet at 80% occlusion pressure. The participant performed the following unilateral exercises: seated knee extensions, step-downs, and leg presses. The participant completed sets of 30, 15, 15, and 15 repetitions, or went to failure. Thirty-second rest breaks were provided between sets during each exercise with the occlusion maintained. At the completion of each exercise, the pressure was released, and a 2-minute non-occluded rest break was taken. Occlusion was restored for the next exercise. At the end of the 8-week training period, the participant's knee extensor strength was retested with a maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The findings indicated a 5.6 Nm increase in the MVC of the involved quadriceps, demonstrating an improvement in strength. In addition the participant reported there was decreased joint pain, as well as improved knee stability during activities of daily living. These findings warrant further research into the efficacy of BFRT as an alternative treatment method for patients with persistent quadriceps weakness.