Blood Flow RestrictionNCT07309068
Acute BFR Training Effects on Balance and Proprioception
A study testing BFR and Proprioceptive Exercise Training in people with Blood Flow Restriction, run by Biruni University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR) is a technique applied using a cuff or tourniquet to restrict venous return while maintaining arterial blood flow during exercise. In recent years, BFR has gained increasing attention as an effective method to enhance muscle activity with low-intensity training. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 35 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Blood Flow Restriction
- What is being tested?
- BFR and Proprioceptive Exercise Training
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 74 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 1 Nov 2025to 1 Feb 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 35 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Be male or female between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Have a physical activity level defined as an energy expenditure of at least 600 MET-minutes per week, according to the International Physical Activity -Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF).
- Have normal knee joint range of motion (flexion: 0-135°; hyperextension: 0-10°).
- Have normal ankle joint range of motion (dorsiflexion: 0-20°; plantarflexion: 0-45°).
Who cannot join
- History of low back or lower extremity injury within the past 6 months.
- History of neurological or vestibular disorders.
- History of lower extremity surgery.
- Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis.
- Presence of at least one contraindication preventing participation in exercises involving blood flow restriction (e.g., smoking, previous venous thromboembolism, peripheral vascular disease risk such as ankle-brachial index <0.9, coronary heart disease, hypertension, hemophilia, etc.).
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Acute Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Balance and Proprioception: A Randomized Controlled Blinded StudyAcute BFR Training Effects on Balance and Proprioception
Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR) is a technique applied using a cuff or tourniquet to restrict venous return while maintaining arterial blood flow during exercise. In recent years, BFR has gained increasing attention as an effective method to enhance muscle activity with low-intensity training. This study aims to evaluate the acute effects of BFR training on a relatively underexplored area-balance and proprioception-and to analyze these effects by comparing them with sham and control groups.
The study is planned to include healthy individuals aged 18-35 years. Participants will be divided into three groups: BFR, sham, and control. Before and after the exercise protocol, all participants' demographic information and physical activity levels will be recorded. In the next phase, participants will undergo assessments of static and dynamic balance, knee and ankle proprioception measurements, and single-leg hop tests. After completing a single-session exercise protocol, all assessment tests will be repeated for each participant. The collected data will be compared across groups.
Read more
The expected outcome of the study is that the BFR group, in which arterial occlusion will be applied, will show significant improvements in parameters related to balance and proprioception compared to the other groups.
The novelty of this study lies in examining both the effects of BFR on balance and proprioception and their acute-level manifestations. Currently, studies investigating the effects of BFR on balance and proprioception are limited. Our study aims not only to contribute to the diversity of literature on balance exercise applications but also, if the acute effects of BFR are confirmed, to provide a new perspective on the application of this exercise method in physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and sports sciences.
Read the detailed description
Blood Flow Restriction Exercise (BFR) has emerged as a highly effective method for enhancing muscle activity through low-intensity training, typically performed at 20-30% of one-repetition maximum. The technique involves the application of an external constrictive device, such as a cuff or tourniquet, which limits venous return while maintaining arterial blood flow. This creates a localized hypoxic environment in the distal musculature, leading to metabolic stress that is thought to activate group III and IV afferent nerve fibers. These fibers, in turn, recruit fast-twitch motor units that are particularly responsive to hypertrophic adaptations and may stimulate anabolic hormone release. Evidence from resistance training studies indicates that BFR can enhance muscle protein synthesis, increase muscle cross-sectional area, and preferentially activate type II fibers even at low exercise intensities. Furthermore, BFR combined with aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular endurance, maximal oxygen uptake, and metabolic adaptations, suggesting its versatility across different training modalities and populations.
Despite extensive research on BFR's effects on muscle strength and hypertrophy, its influence on balance and proprioception remains relatively unexplored. Proprioception, which enables the perception of body position and movement through interactions between the musculoskeletal and central nervous systems, is essential for postural control, motor coordination, injury prevention, and safe performance of daily and athletic activities. Postural stability depends on the integration of vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive inputs, with muscle stiffness and reflexive responses playing crucial roles. Temporary restriction of blood flow during BFR may modulate sensory feedback from mechanoreceptors, such as muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs, potentially enhancing proprioceptive acuity and postural control. Activation of group III and IV afferents, which convey mechanical, metabolic, and nociceptive signals to the central nervous system, is considered a key mechanism underlying these effects. Group III afferents are primarily sensitive to mechanical stimuli such as tension and intramuscular pressure, while group IV afferents respond predominantly to metabolic changes. By stimulating these afferent pathways, BFR may facilitate short-term neuromuscular adaptations that improve both balance and proprioception.
Although some studies have reported improvements in postural control and static balance parameters following BFR, the literature remains limited and occasionally inconsistent. There is a particular scarcity of research investigating the acute effects of BFR on proprioception and balance in young sedentary adults, as most prior studies have focused on strength, hypertrophy, or aerobic performance. The present study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the immediate neuromuscular responses to a single session of BFR exercise, with a focus on proprioceptive function and postural stability. Findings from this research are expected to provide novel insights into the application of BFR for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and athletic performance optimization, offering evidence-based guidance for exercise prescription in both clinical and sporting populations.
- Conditions
- Blood Flow Restriction
- Being tested
- BFR, sham BFR, Proprioceptive Exercise Training
- Keywords
- blood flow restriction, proprioception, dynamic balance
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
BFROther
In this group, participants will have cuffs placed proximally on the limb to induce blood flow restriction, and individualized pressure will be applied. Participants will perform the prescribed exercises under blood flow restriction conditions. For the blood flow restriction application, an Occlusion Cuff device will be used. Following the warm-up protocol, cuffs will be placed bilaterally on the most proximal portion of the thigh in both the BFR and sham groups. The cuff tightness will be adjusted to allow the insertion of two fingers between the cuff and the skin at both the upper and lower edges. In the sham group, the cuffs will not be inflated to restrict blood flow, while in the BFR group, the pressure will be set at 80% of the individual's arterial occlusion pressure (AOP). AOP will be determined in the supine position using an Occlusion Cuff Doppler ultrasound device (8 MHz) applied to the posterior tibial artery.
sham BFROther
Participants in the sham BFR group will wear cuffs placed proximally on both thighs. However, no pressure will be applied to restrict blood flow. The cuffs will remain in place throughout the exercise session to simulate the sensation of blood flow restriction without inducing actual occlusion. Participants will perform the same exercise protocol as the BFR group under these conditions.
Proprioceptive Exercise TrainingOther
All participants will perform the same exercise protocol. The protocol was designed based on studies in the literature examining the effects of proprioception training. The program consists of various balance and proprioceptive exercises performed on a BOSU balance platform. The purpose of the exercises is to improve participants' static and dynamic balance, stimulate the sensorimotor system, and enhance lower extremity stability.
The exercise protocol includes the following sequence: participants will perform squats on the BOSU (10 repetitions), double-leg stance on the BOSU (60 seconds), double-leg ball toss and catch on the BOSU (60 seconds), single-leg stance on the BOSU (60 seconds), and single-leg ball toss and catch on the BOSU (60 seconds). This is followed by double-leg jumps on the BOSU (10 repetitions), single-leg jumps on the BOSU (10 repetitions), and double-leg jumps with 90° trunk rotation on the BOSU (10 repetitions). In the final part, participants will perform double
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Control group | Other | Not described Receives: Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
| Sham Group | Sham comparator | Not described Receives: Other: sham BFR; Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
| BFR Group | Experimental | Not described Receives: Other: BFR; Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Balance Assessments - Performanze Balance System
Within the scope of this study, a Performanz electronic monitoring device, designed to analyze lower extremity muscle groups that influence human balance, will be used. The device operates based on a method that analyzes muscle contraction patterns by tracking the center of balance. Using this system, static single-leg balance will be assessed for both lower extremities under eyes-open conditions.
During the test, participants will stand on the platform for 30 seconds, first on the right foot and then on the left foot, with the knee slightly flexed and the arms crossed over the trunk. Measurements will be repeated three times, and the device will provide the average of the three trials.
The device operates in an integrated manner with a computer-based software system that enables the objective assessment of balance. Through this software, researchers will be able to monitor the measurements in real time using an Android-based tablet or a laptop computer. Balance performan
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Dynamic Balance Assessments - Y Balance Test
The Y Balance Test (YBT) will be administered in this study as a valid and reliable measurement method for the assessment of dynamic balance. Measurements will be conducted using a Y Balance Test platform. The YBT aims to assess the participant's ability to maintain balance on one leg while reaching as far as possible in three directions-anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial-with the contralateral limb.
Following test administration, the composite score will be calculated by normalizing the sum of the maximum reach distances in the three directions to the participant's lower extremity length. The YBT is widely used in the literature as a standardized test protocol with well-established validity and reliability for evaluating dynamic balance capacity (Shaffer, 2013).
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Secondary outcomes (4)
Proprioception - Joint Position Sense
Joint position sense is defined as the ability to perceive a joint angle and to reproduce the same angle even when the position of the extremity changes. Owing to its ease of application in clinical settings, the active joint position sense test is frequently used (Düzgün, 2011). Participants will be seated with their eyes closed, with the hip flexed to 90° and the knee flexed to 120°, ensuring that the soles of the feet are fully in contact with the ground.
Ankle joint assessment
Right and left ankle dorsiflexion range of motion will be assessed using an inclinometer. During the measurement, the inclinometer will be placed on the dorsum of the foot, and the participant's ankle will be passively positioned at 10° of dorsiflexion before being returned to the starting position. Subsequently, the participant will be asked to actively reproduce the same angle. The test will be repeated three times for each ankle. The absolute error between the target angle (10°) and the angle reproduced
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Single Leg Hop Test
Within the scope of this study, a single-leg hop test protocol will be applied to assess functional performance. Prior to testing, the test area will be prepared, and a 3-meter measuring tape will be secured to the floor. During the test, participants will stand at the starting point of the tape on one leg, with their arms at their sides and in a squatting position.
Participants will be instructed to jump forward as far as possible and land on the same leg, maintaining balance upon landing. For a trial to be considered valid:
The non-tested foot must not touch the ground, and mo additional hops should be performed to regain balance after landing. The measurement will be taken from the starting point to the heel position on the measuring tape. Each participant will be allowed three trials, and the best performance will be included in the analysis (Hadadi, 2020).
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Physical Activity Level
Participants' physical activity levels will be assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF). The IPAQ-SF is a valid and reliable self-report questionnaire developed to determine individuals' physical activity levels over the previous seven days (Craig et al., 2003) The questionnaire assesses physical activity across three main categories: vigorous-intensity activities, moderate-intensity activities, and walking duration. Participants report the time spent on these activities in minutes per day, based on which their physical activity levels are determined. The data will be analyzed using Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET)-minutes per week, and participants will be classified into low, moderate, or high physical activity levels.
The IPAQ-SF scoring method is calculated as follows:
Vigorous-intensity physical activity: 8.0 MET × minutes × days
Moderate-intensity physical activity: 4.0 MET × minutes × days
Walking: 3.3 MET × mi
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Rating of Perceived Exertion
To assess the level of physical exertion perceived by participants during exercise, the rating of perceived exertion will be measured. Perceived exertion is a psychophysiological measure that allows individuals to subjectively express the level of fatigue and effort experienced during physical activity (Borg, 1998). Participants will be asked to rate their perceived exertion using a 10-point scale, where 0 indicates no perceived exertion and 10 represents maximum perceived exertion.
Measured: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted30 Dec 2025
- Study start1 Nov 2025
- Primary completion31 Dec 2025
- Study completion1 Feb 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (20)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Blood Flow RestrictionStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 74 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Biruni University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Berivan Beril Kılıç, Biruni University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07309068
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 6
- Status last verified
- Nov 2025
- First submitted
- 20 Nov 2025
- Last updated
- 20 Feb 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes
Publications
Wong V, Spitz RW, Song JS, Yamada Y, Kataoka R, Hammert WB, Kang A, Seffrin A, Bell ZW, Loenneke JP. Blood flow restriction augments the cross-education effect of isometric handgrip training. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2024 May;124(5):1575-1585. doi: 10.1007/s00421-023-05386-y. Epub 2024 Jan 2.
PubMed 38168713Takarada Y, Nakamura Y, Aruga S, Onda T, Miyazaki S, Ishii N. Rapid increase in plasma growth hormone after low-intensity resistance exercise with vascular occlusion. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2000 Jan;88(1):61-5. doi: 10.1152/jappl.2000.88.1.61.
PubMed 10642363Pope ZK, Willardson JM, Schoenfeld BJ. Exercise and blood flow restriction. J Strength Cond Res. 2013 Oct;27(10):2914-26. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3182874721.
PubMed 23364292Pearson SJ, Hussain SR. A review on the mechanisms of blood-flow restriction resistance training-induced muscle hypertrophy. Sports Med. 2015 Feb;45(2):187-200. doi: 10.1007/s40279-014-0264-9.
PubMed 25249278Pavlou K, Korakakis V, Whiteley R, Karagiannis C, Ploutarchou G, Savva C. The effects of upper body blood flow restriction training on muscles located proximal to the applied occlusive pressure: A systematic review with meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023 Mar 23;18(3):e0283309. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283309. eCollection 2023.
PubMed 36952451Neto GR, Novaes JS, Dias I, Brown A, Vianna J, Cirilo-Sousa MS. Effects of resistance training with blood flow restriction on haemodynamics: a systematic review. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging. 2017 Nov;37(6):567-574. doi: 10.1111/cpf.12368. Epub 2016 Apr 20.
PubMed 27095591Loenneke JP, Wilson GJ, Wilson JM. A mechanistic approach to blood flow occlusion. Int J Sports Med. 2010 Jan;31(1):1-4. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1239499. Epub 2009 Nov 2.
PubMed 19885776Lippi L, Turco A, Folli A, Vicelli F, Curci C, Ammendolia A, de Sire A, Invernizzi M. Effects of blood flow restriction on spine postural control using a robotic platform: A pilot randomized cross-over study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2023;36(6):1447-1459. doi: 10.3233/BMR-230063.
PubMed 37694351Laurin J, Pertici V, Dousset E, Marqueste T, Decherchi P. Group III and IV muscle afferents: role on central motor drive and clinical implications. Neuroscience. 2015 Apr 2;290:543-51. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.01.065. Epub 2015 Feb 7.
PubMed 25659344Labata-Lezaun N, Llurda-Almuzara L, Lopez-de-Celis C, Rodriguez-Sanz J, Gonzalez-Rueda V, Hidalgo-Garcia C, Muniz-Pardos B, Perez-Bellmunt A. Effectiveness of Protein Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Muscle Strength and Physical Performance in Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 27;12(9):2607. doi: 10.3390/nu12092607.
PubMed 32867103Korkmaz Dayican D, Ulker Eksi B, Yigit S, Utku Umut G, Ozyurek B, Yilmaz HE, Akinci B. Immediate Effects of High-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Training on Muscle Performance and Muscle Soreness. Res Q Exerc Sport. 2025 Mar;96(1):213-222. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2024.2389902. Epub 2024 Aug 26.
PubMed 39186458Hwang PS, Willoughby DS. Mechanisms Behind Blood Flow-Restricted Training and its Effect Toward Muscle Growth. J Strength Cond Res. 2019 Jul;33 Suppl 1:S167-S179. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000002384.
PubMed 30011262Henry M, Baudry S. Age-related changes in leg proprioception: implications for postural control. J Neurophysiol. 2019 Aug 1;122(2):525-538. doi: 10.1152/jn.00067.2019. Epub 2019 Jun 5.
PubMed 31166819Hadadi M, Haghighat F, Sobhani S. Can fibular reposition taping improve balance performance in individuals with chronic ankle instability? A randomized controlled trial. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2020 Apr;46:102128. doi: 10.1016/j.msksp.2020.102128. Epub 2020 Feb 4.
PubMed 32217274Goble DJ. Proprioceptive acuity assessment via joint position matching: from basic science to general practice. Phys Ther. 2010 Aug;90(8):1176-84. doi: 10.2522/ptj.20090399. Epub 2010 Jun 3.
PubMed 20522675
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 20 Feb 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Acute Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Balance and Proprioception: A Randomized Controlled Blinded StudyAcute BFR Training Effects on Balance and Proprioception
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07309068
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 6
- Conditions
- Blood Flow Restriction
- Keywords
- blood flow restriction, proprioception, dynamic balance
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 74 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Biruni UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Nov 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 31 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 1 Feb 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR) is a technique applied using a cuff or tourniquet to restrict venous return while maintaining arterial blood flow during exercise. In recent years, BFR has gained increasing attention as an effective method to enhance muscle activity with low-intensity training. This study aims to evaluate the acute effects of BFR training on a relatively underexplored area-balance and proprioception-and to analyze these effects by comparing them with sham and control groups.
The study is planned to include healthy individuals aged 18-35 years. Participants will be divided into three groups: BFR, sham, and control. Before and after the exercise protocol, all participants' demographic information and physical activity levels will be recorded. In the next phase, participants will undergo assessments of static and dynamic balance, knee and ankle proprioception measurements, and single-leg hop tests. After completing a single-session exercise protocol, all assessment tests will be repeated for each participant. The collected data will be compared across groups.
The expected outcome of the study is that the BFR group, in which arterial occlusion will be applied, will show significant improvements in parameters related to balance and proprioception compared to the other groups.
The novelty of this study lies in examining both the effects of BFR on balance and proprioception and their acute-level manifestations. Currently, studies investigating the effects of BFR on balance and proprioception are limited. Our study aims not only to contribute to the diversity of literature on balance exercise applications but also, if the acute effects of BFR are confirmed, to provide a new perspective on the application of this exercise method in physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and sports sciences.
Detailed description
Blood Flow Restriction Exercise (BFR) has emerged as a highly effective method for enhancing muscle activity through low-intensity training, typically performed at 20-30% of one-repetition maximum. The technique involves the application of an external constrictive device, such as a cuff or tourniquet, which limits venous return while maintaining arterial blood flow. This creates a localized hypoxic environment in the distal musculature, leading to metabolic stress that is thought to activate group III and IV afferent nerve fibers. These fibers, in turn, recruit fast-twitch motor units that are particularly responsive to hypertrophic adaptations and may stimulate anabolic hormone release. Evidence from resistance training studies indicates that BFR can enhance muscle protein synthesis, increase muscle cross-sectional area, and preferentially activate type II fibers even at low exercise intensities. Furthermore, BFR combined with aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular endurance, maximal oxygen uptake, and metabolic adaptations, suggesting its versatility across different training modalities and populations.
Despite extensive research on BFR's effects on muscle strength and hypertrophy, its influence on balance and proprioception remains relatively unexplored. Proprioception, which enables the perception of body position and movement through interactions between the musculoskeletal and central nervous systems, is essential for postural control, motor coordination, injury prevention, and safe performance of daily and athletic activities. Postural stability depends on the integration of vestibular, visual, and proprioceptive inputs, with muscle stiffness and reflexive responses playing crucial roles. Temporary restriction of blood flow during BFR may modulate sensory feedback from mechanoreceptors, such as muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs, potentially enhancing proprioceptive acuity and postural control. Activation of group III and IV afferents, which convey mechanical, metabolic, and nociceptive signals to the central nervous system, is considered a key mechanism underlying these effects. Group III afferents are primarily sensitive to mechanical stimuli such as tension and intramuscular pressure, while group IV afferents respond predominantly to metabolic changes. By stimulating these afferent pathways, BFR may facilitate short-term neuromuscular adaptations that improve both balance and proprioception.
Although some studies have reported improvements in postural control and static balance parameters following BFR, the literature remains limited and occasionally inconsistent. There is a particular scarcity of research investigating the acute effects of BFR on proprioception and balance in young sedentary adults, as most prior studies have focused on strength, hypertrophy, or aerobic performance. The present study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the immediate neuromuscular responses to a single session of BFR exercise, with a focus on proprioceptive function and postural stability. Findings from this research are expected to provide novel insights into the application of BFR for rehabilitation, injury prevention, and athletic performance optimization, offering evidence-based guidance for exercise prescription in both clinical and sporting populations.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Other
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Control group | Other | Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
| Sham Group | Sham comparator | Other: sham BFR, Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
| BFR Group | Experimental | Other: BFR, Other: Proprioceptive Exercise Training |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 35 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Be male or female between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Have a physical activity level defined as an energy expenditure of at least 600 MET-minutes per week, according to the International Physical Activity -Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF).
- Have normal knee joint range of motion (flexion: 0-135°; hyperextension: 0-10°).
- Have normal ankle joint range of motion (dorsiflexion: 0-20°; plantarflexion: 0-45°).
Key exclusion criteria (5 listed)
- History of low back or lower extremity injury within the past 6 months.
- History of neurological or vestibular disorders.
- History of lower extremity surgery.
- Risk factors for deep vein thrombosis.
- Presence of at least one contraindication preventing participation in exercises involving blood flow restriction (e.g., smoking, previous venous thromboembolism, peripheral vascular disease risk such as ankle-brachial index <0.9, coronary heart disease, hypertension, hemophilia, etc.).
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| BFRIn this group, participants will have cuffs placed proximally on the limb to induce blood flow restriction, and individualized pressure will be applied. Participants will perform the prescribed exercises under blood flow restriction conditions. For the blood flow restriction application, an Occlusion Cuff device will be used. Following the warm-up protocol, cuffs will be placed bilaterally on the most proximal portion of the thigh in both the BFR and sham groups. The cuff tightness will be adjusted to allow the insertion of two fingers between the cuff and the skin at both the upper and lower edges. In the sham group, the cuffs will not be inflated to restrict blood flow, while in the BFR group, the pressure will be set at 80% of the individual's arterial occlusion pressure (AOP). AOP will be determined in the supine position using an Occlusion Cuff Doppler ultrasound device (8 MHz) applied to the posterior tibial artery. | Other | BFR Group |
| sham BFRParticipants in the sham BFR group will wear cuffs placed proximally on both thighs. However, no pressure will be applied to restrict blood flow. The cuffs will remain in place throughout the exercise session to simulate the sensation of blood flow restriction without inducing actual occlusion. Participants will perform the same exercise protocol as the BFR group under these conditions. | Other | Sham Group |
| Proprioceptive Exercise TrainingAll participants will perform the same exercise protocol. The protocol was designed based on studies in the literature examining the effects of proprioception training. The program consists of various balance and proprioceptive exercises performed on a BOSU balance platform. The purpose of the exercises is to improve participants' static and dynamic balance, stimulate the sensorimotor system, and enhance lower extremity stability. The exercise protocol includes the following sequence: participants will perform squats on the BOSU (10 repetitions), double-leg stance on the BOSU (60 seconds), double-leg ball toss and catch on the BOSU (60 seconds), single-leg stance on the BOSU (60 seconds), and single-leg ball toss and catch on the BOSU (60 seconds). This is followed by double-leg jumps on the BOSU (10 repetitions), single-leg jumps on the BOSU (10 repetitions), and double-leg jumps with 90° trunk rotation on the BOSU (10 repetitions). In the final part, participants will perform double | Other | BFR Group, Control group, Sham Group |
Primary outcome
Balance Assessments - Performanze Balance System
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Within the scope of this study, a Performanz electronic monitoring device, designed to analyze lower extremity muscle groups that influence human balance, will be used. The device operates based on a method that analyzes muscle contraction patterns by tracking the center of balance. Using this system, static single-leg balance will be assessed for both lower extremities under eyes-open conditions. During the test, participants will stand on the platform for 30 seconds, first on the right foot and then on the left foot, with the knee slightly flexed and the arms crossed over the trunk. Measurements will be repeated three times, and the device will provide the average of the three trials. The device operates in an integrated manner with a computer-based software system that enables the objective assessment of balance. Through this software, researchers will be able to monitor the measurements in real time using an Android-based tablet or a laptop computer. Balance performan
Dynamic Balance Assessments - Y Balance Test
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
The Y Balance Test (YBT) will be administered in this study as a valid and reliable measurement method for the assessment of dynamic balance. Measurements will be conducted using a Y Balance Test platform. The YBT aims to assess the participant's ability to maintain balance on one leg while reaching as far as possible in three directions-anterior, posterolateral, and posteromedial-with the contralateral limb. Following test administration, the composite score will be calculated by normalizing the sum of the maximum reach distances in the three directions to the participant's lower extremity length. The YBT is widely used in the literature as a standardized test protocol with well-established validity and reliability for evaluating dynamic balance capacity (Shaffer, 2013).
4 secondary outcomes
Proprioception - Joint Position Sense
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Single Leg Hop Test
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Physical Activity Level
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Rating of Perceived Exertion
Time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 20 Feb 2026.
- Results publication: PubMed 38168713Wong V, Spitz RW, Song JS, Yamada Y, Kataoka R, Hammert WB, Kang A, Seffrin A, Bell ZW, Loenneke JP. Blood flow restriction augments the cross-education effect of isometric handgrip training. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2024 May;124(5):1575-1585. doi: 10.1007/s00421-023-05386-y. Epub 2024 Jan 2.
- Results publication: PubMed 10642363Takarada Y, Nakamura Y, Aruga S, Onda T, Miyazaki S, Ishii N. Rapid increase in plasma growth hormone after low-intensity resistance exercise with vascular occlusion. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2000 Jan;88(1):61-5. doi: 10.1152/jappl.2000.88.1.61.
- Results publication: PubMed 23364292Pope ZK, Willardson JM, Schoenfeld BJ. Exercise and blood flow restriction. J Strength Cond Res. 2013 Oct;27(10):2914-26. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3182874721.
- Results publication: PubMed 25249278Pearson SJ, Hussain SR. A review on the mechanisms of blood-flow restriction resistance training-induced muscle hypertrophy. Sports Med. 2015 Feb;45(2):187-200. doi: 10.1007/s40279-014-0264-9.
- Results publication: PubMed 36952451Pavlou K, Korakakis V, Whiteley R, Karagiannis C, Ploutarchou G, Savva C. The effects of upper body blood flow restriction training on muscles located proximal to the applied occlusive pressure: A systematic review with meta-analysis. PLoS One. 2023 Mar 23;18(3):e0283309. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283309. eCollection 2023.
- Results publication: PubMed 27095591Neto GR, Novaes JS, Dias I, Brown A, Vianna J, Cirilo-Sousa MS. Effects of resistance training with blood flow restriction on haemodynamics: a systematic review. Clin Physiol Funct Imaging. 2017 Nov;37(6):567-574. doi: 10.1111/cpf.12368. Epub 2016 Apr 20.
- Results publication: PubMed 19885776Loenneke JP, Wilson GJ, Wilson JM. A mechanistic approach to blood flow occlusion. Int J Sports Med. 2010 Jan;31(1):1-4. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1239499. Epub 2009 Nov 2.
- Results publication: PubMed 37694351Lippi L, Turco A, Folli A, Vicelli F, Curci C, Ammendolia A, de Sire A, Invernizzi M. Effects of blood flow restriction on spine postural control using a robotic platform: A pilot randomized cross-over study. J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2023;36(6):1447-1459. doi: 10.3233/BMR-230063.
- Results publication: PubMed 25659344Laurin J, Pertici V, Dousset E, Marqueste T, Decherchi P. Group III and IV muscle afferents: role on central motor drive and clinical implications. Neuroscience. 2015 Apr 2;290:543-51. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.01.065. Epub 2015 Feb 7.
- Results publication: PubMed 32867103Labata-Lezaun N, Llurda-Almuzara L, Lopez-de-Celis C, Rodriguez-Sanz J, Gonzalez-Rueda V, Hidalgo-Garcia C, Muniz-Pardos B, Perez-Bellmunt A. Effectiveness of Protein Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Muscle Strength and Physical Performance in Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 27;12(9):2607. doi: 10.3390/nu12092607.
- Results publication: PubMed 39186458Korkmaz Dayican D, Ulker Eksi B, Yigit S, Utku Umut G, Ozyurek B, Yilmaz HE, Akinci B. Immediate Effects of High-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Training on Muscle Performance and Muscle Soreness. Res Q Exerc Sport. 2025 Mar;96(1):213-222. doi: 10.1080/02701367.2024.2389902. Epub 2024 Aug 26.
- Results publication: PubMed 30011262Hwang PS, Willoughby DS. Mechanisms Behind Blood Flow-Restricted Training and its Effect Toward Muscle Growth. J Strength Cond Res. 2019 Jul;33 Suppl 1:S167-S179. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000002384.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing BFR and Proprioceptive Exercise Training in people with Blood Flow Restriction, run by Biruni University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 20 Feb 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Balance Assessments - Performanze Balance System (time frame: pre-invention and immediatelety after invention). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07309068, which also lists 20 linked publications.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 20 Feb 2026.