Work

Blood flow restriction training improves strength, fatigue, and function in middle-aged adults with multiple sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of a 12-week low-load blood flow restriction (BFR) training program on physical function, muscle strength, fatigue, physical activity, and manual dexterity in middle-aged individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). DESIGN: This study was designed as a randomized controlled clinical trial. METHODS: Sixty-five adults aged 40-65 years with MS (Expanded Disability Status Scale <7) were randomized (32 experimental, 33 control). All participants had not engaged in structured exercise in the past six months and retained sufficient autonomy for training. The experimental group received supervised low-load BFR resistance training twice weekly for 12 weeks (24 sessions), using 30 % of one-repetition maximum. The control group continued with usual care. Exercises targeted the upper and lower limbs with individualized pressure based on estimated arterial occlusion. Primary outcomes included: disease impact (MSIS-29), muscle strength (1RM, handgrip, STS-30), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale), physical activity (IPAQ), and manual dexterity (Nine-Hole Peg Test). RESULTS: Significant improvements (p < 0.05) were found in the BFR group compared to control across all outcome measures. Effect sizes ranged from moderate to large. These included reduced perceived disease impact, enhanced muscle strength, reduced fatigue, increased physical activity, and improved manual dexterity. No adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Twelve weeks of low-load BFR training is a safe and effective intervention for improving strength, function, and quality of life in middle-aged individuals with MS. It represents a viable alternative to high-intensity training programs in this population.

Source: Journal of science and medicine in sport

DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2025.10.007

Authors: Javier Cano-Sánchez, Agustín Aibar-Almazán, María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile, Yolanda Castellote-Caballero, Fidel Hita-Contreras

Institutions: Universidad de Jaén, Universidad del Atlántico Medio

Language: English

Topic: Cardiovascular and exercise physiology

Subfield: Complementary and alternative medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,720