Ön Çapraz Bağ Rekonstrüksiyonu Sonrası Kan Akışı Kısıtlamalı Çapraz Eğitimin Kuadriseps Kas Kuvveti, Kalınlığı ve Diz Fonksiyonu Üzerine Etkisi

Abstract

This study examined the effect of blood flow restriction (BFR) combined with cross-education (CE) on quadriceps strength following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Twenty-four individuals who underwent ACLR with a hamstring autograft [Age:24.9±6.3 years, BMI:24±2.3kg/m²] were randomly assigned at the 4th postoperative week to either the CE+BFR group (n=13) or the CE group (n=11). All participants underwent standard rehabilitation unCl the 12th week post-surgery. The CE group performed eccentric CE exercises for the non-operated limb using an isokinetic system (60°/s, 3 sets of 12 repetitions, 8 weeks/2 days). The CE+BFR group followed the same protocol with BFR applied. Quadriceps isometric strength was assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer, while quadriceps thickness and rectus femoris cross-sectional area (CSA) were measured via ultrasound. Pain was evaluated with a numeric pain scale, and function with the International Knee Documentation Commitee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Tampa Kinesiophobia Scales. Assessments were at 4th and 12th postoperative weeks. Variance analysis was used for statistical evaluation. No group-time interaction was observed for quadriceps strength, size, pain, or function (p>0.05). Significant time-related improvements were found in quadriceps strength (operated:p<0.001; non-operated:p<0.001), and quadriceps size in both limbs (p<0.05) but not in rectus femoris CSA (p>0.05). Activity pain decreased in time (p=0.01), while rest or night pain showed no change (p>0.05). IKDC and KOOS scores improved over time (IKDC:p=0.001; KOOS:p<0.001), but Tampa scores did not (p>0.05). The study concluded that BFR cross-training did not offer added benefits for quadriceps strength, thickness, or knee function in post-ACLR patients.