Short-Term Impact of Low-Intensity Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction on Mild Knee Osteoarthritis in Older Adults: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This pilot study aimed to investigate the immediate impact of low-intensity exercises with blood flow restriction (BFR) on older adults with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Fifteen patients with KOA who were over 50 years old, participated and underwent low-intensity resistance knee exercises at 30% of their one-repetition maximum with BFR three times/week for two weeks. Pre- and post-exercise assessments included pain levels, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores, isokinetic knee strength, lower extremity muscle volume (via leg circumference and muscle thickness), functional performance tests (timed up-and-go [TUG] and sit-to-stand [STS]), skeletal muscle index (SMI) using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and handgrip strength (HGS). Post-exercise, there was a significant reduction in pain. WOMAC scores showed significant improvements across all three domains: pain, stiffness, and physical function. In the TUG and STS tests, completion times were significantly reduced. Thigh and calf circumferences, as well as thigh muscle thickness significantly increased after exercise. Post-exercise SMI and HGS also significantly increased. However, isokinetic knee strength did not show significant changes. In conclusion, low-intensity BFR exercises provide immediate benefits in symptoms and physical performance for patients with KOA, potentially inducing local and systemic muscle mass increase, even after a short-term intervention.