Effectiveness Of Blood Flow Restriction Therapy In Construction Workers With Impingement Syndrome
Keywords:
blood flow restriction theropy, shoulder impingementAbstract
Background: Shoulder impingement syndrome is a leading cause of shoulder-related morbidity, particularly in construction workers who perform repetitive overhead movements. Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFRT) has emerged as a potential intervention to enhance muscle strength and reduce pain in affected individuals.
Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness of BFRT in improving pain levels and muscle strength in construction workers diagnosed with impingement syndrome.
Methods: A total of 10 participants (aged 30–60) diagnosed with impingement syndrome were included in this interventional study. Participants underwent a structured physiotherapy protocol, including BFRT, three times a week for four weeks. Pre- and post-treatment assessments were conducted using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain and a handheld dynamometer for muscle strength measurement. Data analysis was performed using paired t-tests.
Results: A significant reduction in pain was observed (VAS score decreased from 7 ± 1.491 to 2.2 ± 1.033, p < 0.0001). Additionally, there was a statistically significant increase in muscle strength across key shoulder muscles, including the supraspinatus (p < 0.0001), infraspinatus and teres minor (p < 0.0001), and subscapularis (p = 0.0002).
Conclusion: BFRT is an effective intervention for reducing pain and improving muscle strength in construction workers with impingement syndrome. Its ability to enhance neuromuscular function and promote recovery suggests that it may be a valuable addition to occupational rehabilitation programs. However, further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols and assess long-term outcomes.
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de Queiros, V. S., et al. (2022). This study provides a comprehensive overview of the neuromuscular adaptations resulting from short-term, high-frequency BFRT, highlighting significant increases in strength and muscle size. Available from :- https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0279811
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