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

To determine the feasibility of low-load resistance blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in people with Parkinson disease (PD).

This prospective cohort, convergent parallel mixed-methods design investigated the feasibility of 8 weeks of low-load resistance BFRT in people with PD. Feasibility was determined by enrolling 20 participants, ≥80% retention and adherence, and no serious intervention-related adverse events. Semistructured interviews and questionnaires evaluated acceptability and satisfaction. Changes in muscle strength and thickness, mobility, physical activity, and patient-reported outcomes were also assessed.

Sixteen of 20 participants (80%) were retained at the postintervention assessment (68.1 ± 8.6 years old, 44% Female), completing 88% of visits with no serious adverse events. Qualitative analysis identified 3 themes: satisfaction and acceptability, functional capacity changes, and program feedback. Most participants were satisfied (88%), and lack of satisfaction was primarily related to pressure intolerance and exercise specificity. There were improvements in knee extension and ankle plantarflexion strength (18-22%), 30-Second Sit to Stand (+2.2 reps), Timed Up and Go (-2.1 seconds), and 10-Meter Walk Test (0.12 m/s). The average daily step count decreased (-476 steps/day) and sedentary time increased (21 minutes/day). There were minimal changes in elbow extension strength, rectus femoris muscle thickness, Parkinson's Fatigue Scale, and Patient-Specific Functional Scale.

BFRT was feasible and safe in people with PD, with promising improvements in muscle strength and mobility, warranting a future efficacy study. Clinicians considering BFRT should carefully evaluate tolerance and make sure BFRT aligns with patient goals.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A539 ).