Blood Flow Restriction Training for Falls Risk in Older Adults
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are using steroidal drugs, you would not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Blood flow restrictions in combination with low-intensity resistance training for reducing falls risk in older adults?
Research suggests that combining blood flow restriction with low-intensity resistance training can improve muscle strength and physical performance in older adults, which are important factors in reducing fall risk. However, more studies are needed to directly confirm its effect on actual fall rates.12345
Is blood flow restriction training safe for older adults?
Blood flow restriction training can be safe for older adults, but it may cause increased blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues, especially in those with existing health conditions like heart disease or diabetes. It's important to have a health screening before starting this type of exercise to ensure it's appropriate for you.12356
How does the treatment of blood flow restriction training differ from other treatments for reducing fall risk in older adults?
Blood flow restriction training is unique because it combines low-intensity resistance exercises with restricted blood flow to the muscles, which can enhance muscle strength and function without the need for heavy weights. This makes it particularly suitable for older adults who may not tolerate high-intensity workouts.12357
What is the purpose of this trial?
Resistance training is beneficial for stimulating muscle and bone growth and is uniquely important for older adults to avoid frailty and to maintain bone density. Seniors tend to be anxious to use a large resistance or try heavier weights as it is not common for them to exercise this way. Therefore, blood flow restriction is a fantastic way to increase intensity while keeping the resistance low. Wearing blood flow restriction straps allows the muscles to adapt to working at a lower oxygen pressure, therefore, mimicking a higher intensity. Additionally, as we age, oxygen consumption decreases, commonly due to loss of lean body mass and a reduced maximum heart rate. However, resistance training can counteract these declines by reducing the resting heart rate and improving cardiac output, therefore, bettering oxygen consumption.The study will consist of 10 weeks of resistance exercises performed twice per week. The classes will be open to seniors of 60 years of age or older. The classes will be held on zoom- allowing for easy access, no travel and an opportunity for seniors to be active in their own home. The exercises will consist of general resistance training movements focusing all the major muscle groups. One group of seniors will wear blood flow restriction bands on both legs at the upper thigh and a control group which will complete the same exercise classes with no restriction.Before, at midpoint and after the 10 weeks, the participants will perform strength tests using the BIODEX and three functional tests focusing on the lower extremity. There will be a practice trial for all the functional tests where results are not recorded. Once the practice is completed, the participants will have one trial of each test. The BIODEX is a dynamometer that allows testing in many different settings including rehabilitation. During the functional tests, the participants will be asked to wear a VO2 non-invasive mask (VO2 Master) to measure their oxygen consumption. The functional tests will include:* Sit to stand: rise from a chair as many times as possible without using hands or arm rests to help.* Timed up a go: Rise from a chair and walk 8ft as fast as possible without running and return to sit on the chair.* Sitting-rising test: lowering to the floor and coming back up without using hands, knees or arms.Thus, the purpose of this study is three-fold: 1) To assess the effects of the 10-week online exercise intervention on strength and functionality 2) To assess the effects of the 10-week intervention on oxygen consumption using a VO2 non-invasive mask and 3) To assess if the addition of blood flow restriction over a 10-week intervention increases the improvements in strength and oxygen consumption compared to the control group.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for seniors aged 60 and older who are at risk of falling. It's designed to help them improve muscle strength and functionality without heavy weights. Participants must be able to attend twice-weekly resistance training classes via Zoom from their homes.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 10 weeks of online resistance training, with one group using blood flow restriction bands and a control group without restriction
Assessment
Strength and functional tests are conducted before, at midpoint, and after the 10-week intervention using BIODEX and VO2 non-invasive mask
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Blood flow restrictions in combination with low-intensity resistance training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Concordia University, Montreal
Lead Sponsor