Blood Flow Restriction Training in People With Parkinson Disease: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor control.
• Current management strategies for PD often include exercise, but optimal training protocols are still under investigation.
• Low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFRT) presents a potential alternative or adjunct therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and safety of an 8-week low-load resistance blood flow restriction training (BFRT) program in individuals with Parkinson disease (PD).
• To explore patient acceptability, satisfaction, and perceived benefits of BFRT.
• To evaluate preliminary effects of BFRT on muscle strength, physical function, and activity levels in people with PD.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort, convergent parallel mixed-methods design was employed.
• Twenty participants with PD underwent 8 weeks of low-load resistance BFRT.
• Feasibility was measured by enrollment, retention (≥80%), adherence (≥80%), and absence of serious adverse events. Acceptability and satisfaction were assessed via interviews and questionnaires. Changes in strength, mobility, physical activity, and patient-reported outcomes were recorded.

Main Results:

• The study achieved 80% retention with no serious adverse events, indicating good feasibility and safety.
• Participants reported high satisfaction (88%), though some experienced pressure intolerance or issues with exercise specificity.
• Significant improvements were observed in knee extension and ankle plantarflexion strength, 30-Second Sit to Stand test, Timed Up and Go, and 10-Meter Walk Test. Daily step count decreased, and sedentary time increased.

Conclusions:

• Low-load resistance blood flow restriction training (BFRT) is feasible and safe for individuals with Parkinson disease (PD).
• The training demonstrated promising improvements in muscle strength and mobility, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits.
• Future efficacy studies are warranted, with careful consideration of patient tolerance and goal alignment for BFRT implementation in clinical practice.