Application of blood flow restriction training in lower limb rehabilitation

With the popularity of national fitness campaigns, sports injuries, especially lower limb injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament tears and ankle sprains, are increasing year by year. There are limitations in traditional treatment such as muscle atrophy. In recent years, the blood flow restriction training method (BFRT) which simulates high-intensity exercise with low intensity and limits arterial and venous blood flow to promote muscle growth and strength enhancement, has drawn attention as a novel approach to rehabilitation. This article reviews the application of BFRT in the rehabilitation of lower limb injuries, discusses its effects on muscle function, pain management and quality of life, and evaluates its safety and prospects for clinical application. BFRT reduces mechanical stress, relieves pain, improves endurance and aerobic capacity, and improves cardiovascular function. However, there are discomfort and potential risks, such as muscle injury and thrombosis, which require individualised adjustments and standardised training. BFRT has shown positive result(reducing pain &oedema and improving function)s in rehabilitation of ACL reconstruction (ACLR) and chronic ankle instability (CAI). In addition, BFRT has been shown to aid in the functional recovery of the lower extremity in patients with Achilles tendon injuries and strokes. Despite the positive effects of BFRT, relevant studies have problems such as small sample sizes and non-uniform parameters. BFRT is considered a safe training modality, but contraindications should be examined before clinical application. Future research endeavours should investigate the impact of BFRT in many rehabilitation contexts and enhance tailored rehabilitation strategies. In order to maximize the therapeutic benefit, a rehabilitation training program should be developed and refined with a minimum effective dose based on the quantification of the in vivo physiological response to BFRT. The identification of the optimal prognostic approach will help to advance the standardisation of BFR treatment methods.