Uso terapéutico del método de restricción de flujo sanguíneo para la mejora de la fuerza muscular. Una revisión sistemática

Resumo

Introduction Restriction blood flow training implies low intensity endurance exercises combined with blood flow restriction by an inflatable cuff or tourniquet placed proximal to the muscle. The aim of this study is to analyze the scientific literature about the use of restriction blood flow training to improve muscle strength. Material and methods A systematic search was carried out in Pubmed, Medline, Cinahl, Sport Discus, Scopus, Web Of Science and PEDro. The descriptors used were «Physical Therapy Modalities», «Physical Therapy», «Rehabilitation», «Muscle Strength», «Blood Flow Restriction Training» and «Blood Flow Restriction». Randomized clinical trials published in the last 5years were included. Results Thirteen articles were studied in this systematic review, grouped into three types of study population on which blood flow restriction was analyzed: subjects with knee pathology, elderly people and people without pathology. Significant improvements in muscle strength were observed with the application of blood flow restriction in all three study groups. Conclusion Blood flow restriction has proven to be a valid method in physical therapy for the improvement of muscle strength in subjects with knee pathology, in elderly people and in healthy people. It can be considered an effective method to gain muscle strength and at the same time be an alternative to conventional strength improvement programs.