Conservative treatment using blood flow restriction and brace in individuals with complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture: protocol for a randomised clinical trial

Emerging evidence suggests that a conservative period of joint immobilisation, in which positioning the knee reduces the distance between the two torn ligament ends, may promote ACL healing after a complete rupture. However, the use of a brace can result in muscle atrophy. BFR exercises may play an important role during this period of immobilisation and restricted movement. Positive results of exercise under BFR, in combination with a brace, could serve as an alternative treatment for participants with acute or subacute complete ACL tears, potentially reducing recovery time or even avoiding surgery. Trial registration This protocol was approved by the Cyprus National Bioethics Committee (ΕΕΒΚ/ΕΠ/2024/70) and registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (Registration number: NCT06727344).