Posterior Tibial Tendon DysfunctionBFR-PTTDNCT07750106
Blood Flow Restriction Training in Women With Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
A study testing Blood Flow Restriction Training and Conventional Physical Therapy Program in people with Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction, run by May University in Cairo at 1 site in Egypt.
Trial summary
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain, impaired foot function, and reduced dynamic stability. As one of the primary causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, it can significantly affect walking ability, balance, and overall performance of daily… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 40 to 55 years, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
- What is being tested?
- Blood Flow Restriction Training and Conventional Physical Therapy Program
- Type of treatment
- Medical device, Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 54 participants
- Where
- 1 siteEgypt
- Study dates
- 1 Aug 2026to 1 Oct 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
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 40 to 55 years
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Female post-menopausal women aged 40-55 years.
- Clinically diagnosed with Stage I or flexible Stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction according to the Johnson and Strom classification modified by Myerson confirmed by an orthopedic physician.
- Symptoms persisting for ≥ 3 months.
- Pain intensity of ≥3/10 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during weight-bearing activities.
- Medically cleared to participate in blood flow restriction resistance training.
- Symptoms located at the medial ankle or foot.
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- Pain on palpation of the posterior tibial tendon.
- A positive double and/or single heel-rise test.
- Able to walk independently without assistive devices
- Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and <24.9 kg/m².
- Willingness to participate and provide written informed consent.
Who cannot join
- Rigidity of the hindfoot.
- Pain on palpation of the fibular muscles.
- History of corticosteroid injection in the tendon in a one-month period prior to the study onset.
- History of surgery to the hindfoot and/or ankle.
- History of previous surgeries to the musculoskeletal structures (i.e., bones, joint structures, nerves) in either limb of the lower extremities.
- History of a fracture in either limb of the lower extremities requiring realignment.
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- Acute injury to musculoskeletal structures of other joints of the lower extremity in the previous three months, which impacted joint integrity and function (i.e., sprains, fractures) resulting in interruption of desired physical activity.
- Hip joint or knee joint replacement.
- Patients who were possibly at risk of adverse reactions of blood flow restriction (i.e., poor circulatory system, obesity, diabetes, arterial calcification, sickle cell trait, severe hypertension, or renal failure).
- Any neurological conditions that affect proprioception, such as polyneuropathy, multiple sclerosis, and sensory ataxia.
- Vestibular deficits and vision problems.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Egypt1 site
Faculty of Physical Therapy, May University in Cairo
Cairo, Cairo Governorate
Hajar M Edris, PhD, +201122243826, hajar.mohammed@muc.edu.eg
About this study
Official title: Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Dynamic Postural Stability and Proprioception in Post-Menopausal Women With Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain, impaired foot function, and reduced dynamic stability. As one of the primary causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, it can significantly affect walking ability, balance, and overall performance of daily activities. Although conventional rehabilitation typically emphasizes strengthening the posterior tibial tendon and surrounding muscles, these interventions may not fully address deficits in neuromuscular control and postural stability, highlighting the need for additional therapeutic approaches.
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether incorporating blood flow restriction (BFR) training into a rehabilitation program provides additional benefits for postmenopausal women with Stage I or flexible Stage II PTTD. A total of 54 eligible participants will be randomly allocated to either a BFR training group or a conventional exercise group. Clinical outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention, including dynamic postural stability measured with the Biodex Balance System and active and passive ankle joint position sense assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer.
Read the detailed description
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a progressive musculoskeletal disorder that affects the integrity and function of the posterior tibial tendon, leading to pain, impaired foot support, decreased postural stability, and functional limitations. As one of the most common causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, PTTD can substantially interfere with walking, balance, and other daily activities. The condition is particularly prevalent among middle-aged and older women. In postmenopausal women, age-related declines in muscle strength, tendon quality, and neuromuscular function may further compromise lower-limb stability and physical performance.
Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has emerged as a promising rehabilitation technique in which low-load resistance exercise is performed while a pneumatic cuff applies controlled pressure to the proximal portion of the limb. By partially restricting blood flow during exercise, this approach enables individuals to achieve training adaptations that are typically associated with higher exercise intensities while using considerably lower loads. Although BFR has shown encouraging results in the rehabilitation of various musculoskeletal conditions, its effectiveness in individuals with PTTD, particularly postmenopausal women, has not been adequately investigated.
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of a rehabilitation program incorporating blood flow restriction training with those of a conventional rehabilitation exercise program in postmenopausal women with Stage I or flexible Stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups.
Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline and after completion of 4 weeks. The primary outcome will be dynamic postural stability, measured using the Biodex Balance System. Secondary outcomes will include active and passive ankle joint position sense assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer
The findings of this study are expected to expand the current evidence regarding the use of blood flow restriction training in the rehabilitation of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. They may also help guide future evidence-based rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving functional outcomes and postural stability in postmenopausal women with this condition.
- Conditions
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
- Being tested
- Blood Flow Restriction Training, Conventional Physical Therapy Program
- Keywords
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction, Blood Flow Restriction
- Medical subject headings
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Blood Flow Restriction TrainingDevice
Also called BFR
Low-load Resistance exercise performed with a pneumatic cuff applied to the proximal lower extremities
Conventional Physical Therapy ProgramBehavioural
Also called CPT
Strengthening Exercises and ankle support
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Flow Restriction Group | Experimental | Participants receive a conventional physical therapy program combined with blood flow restriction. Training Receives: Device: Blood Flow Restriction Training; Behavioral: Conventional Physical Therapy Program |
| Conventional Physical Therapy Group | Active comparator | Participants receive the same exercise program without blood flow restriction Receives: Behavioral: Conventional Physical Therapy Program |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Overall Stability Index (OSI)
The Overall Stability Index (OSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. The OSI quantifies the overall variance of platform displacement from level during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower OSI values indicate better postural stability.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Anteroposterior Stability Index (APSI)
The Anteroposterior Stability Index (APSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. APSI quantifies postural sway in the sagittal (anteroposterior) plane during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower APSI values indicate better balance control in the anteroposterior direction.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI)
The Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. MLSI quantifies postural sway in the frontal (mediolateral) plane during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower MLSI values indicate better balance control in the mediolateral direction.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Limits of stability (LOS)
Limits of Stability (LOS) will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD. LOS evaluates the participant's ability to voluntarily shift the center of gravity toward predefined targets while maintaining postural control. Performance is expressed as an overall percentage score (%), with higher values indicating better dynamic balance and postural control.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Secondary outcomes (2)
Active Ankle Joint Position Sense
Active ankle joint position sense will be assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer during an active joint reposition test in the sagittal plane. The outcome is expressed as the absolute angular repositioning error in degrees (°). Lower values indicate better proprioceptive accuracy.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Passive Ankle Joint Position Sense
Passive ankle joint position sense will be assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer during a passive joint repositioning test in the sagittal plane. The outcome is expressed as the absolute angular repositioning error in degrees (°). Lower values indicate better proprioceptive accuracy.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted6 Aug 2026
- Study start1 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion1 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Posterior Tibial Tendon DysfunctionStudies 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
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 54 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- May University in Cairo
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Hajar Mohammed Edris, May University in Cairo
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07750106
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- MUC
- Acronym
- BFR-PTTD
- Status last verified
- Aug 2026
- First submitted
- 28 Jul 2026
- Last updated
- 6 Aug 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 6 Aug 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Dynamic Postural Stability and Proprioception in Post-Menopausal Women With Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07750106
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- BFR-PTTD / MUC
- Conditions
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
- Keywords
- Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction, Blood Flow Restriction
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 54 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- May University in CairoUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Aug 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 1 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 6 Aug 2026 (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.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain, impaired foot function, and reduced dynamic stability. As one of the primary causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, it can significantly affect walking ability, balance, and overall performance of daily activities. Although conventional rehabilitation typically emphasizes strengthening the posterior tibial tendon and surrounding muscles, these interventions may not fully address deficits in neuromuscular control and postural stability, highlighting the need for additional therapeutic approaches.
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate whether incorporating blood flow restriction (BFR) training into a rehabilitation program provides additional benefits for postmenopausal women with Stage I or flexible Stage II PTTD. A total of 54 eligible participants will be randomly allocated to either a BFR training group or a conventional exercise group. Clinical outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention, including dynamic postural stability measured with the Biodex Balance System and active and passive ankle joint position sense assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer.
Detailed description
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a progressive musculoskeletal disorder that affects the integrity and function of the posterior tibial tendon, leading to pain, impaired foot support, decreased postural stability, and functional limitations. As one of the most common causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, PTTD can substantially interfere with walking, balance, and other daily activities. The condition is particularly prevalent among middle-aged and older women. In postmenopausal women, age-related declines in muscle strength, tendon quality, and neuromuscular function may further compromise lower-limb stability and physical performance.
Blood flow restriction (BFR) training has emerged as a promising rehabilitation technique in which low-load resistance exercise is performed while a pneumatic cuff applies controlled pressure to the proximal portion of the limb. By partially restricting blood flow during exercise, this approach enables individuals to achieve training adaptations that are typically associated with higher exercise intensities while using considerably lower loads. Although BFR has shown encouraging results in the rehabilitation of various musculoskeletal conditions, its effectiveness in individuals with PTTD, particularly postmenopausal women, has not been adequately investigated.
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of a rehabilitation program incorporating blood flow restriction training with those of a conventional rehabilitation exercise program in postmenopausal women with Stage I or flexible Stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups.
Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline and after completion of 4 weeks. The primary outcome will be dynamic postural stability, measured using the Biodex Balance System. Secondary outcomes will include active and passive ankle joint position sense assessed using the Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer
The findings of this study are expected to expand the current evidence regarding the use of blood flow restriction training in the rehabilitation of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. They may also help guide future evidence-based rehabilitation strategies aimed at improving functional outcomes and postural stability in postmenopausal women with this condition.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Flow Restriction Group | Experimental | Device: Blood Flow Restriction Training, Behavioral: Conventional Physical Therapy ProgramParticipants receive a conventional physical therapy program combined with blood flow restriction. Training |
| Conventional Physical Therapy Group | Active comparator | Behavioral: Conventional Physical Therapy ProgramParticipants receive the same exercise program without blood flow restriction |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 40 to 55 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (11 listed)
- Female post-menopausal women aged 40-55 years.
- Clinically diagnosed with Stage I or flexible Stage II posterior tibial tendon dysfunction according to the Johnson and Strom classification modified by Myerson confirmed by an orthopedic physician.
- Symptoms persisting for ≥ 3 months.
- Pain intensity of ≥3/10 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during weight-bearing activities.
- Medically cleared to participate in blood flow restriction resistance training.
Key exclusion criteria (11 listed)
- Rigidity of the hindfoot.
- Pain on palpation of the fibular muscles.
- History of corticosteroid injection in the tendon in a one-month period prior to the study onset.
- History of surgery to the hindfoot and/or ankle.
- History of previous surgeries to the musculoskeletal structures (i.e., bones, joint structures, nerves) in either limb of the lower extremities.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Flow Restriction TrainingAlso: BFRLow-load Resistance exercise performed with a pneumatic cuff applied to the proximal lower extremities | Device | Blood Flow Restriction Group |
| Conventional Physical Therapy ProgramAlso: CPTStrengthening Exercises and ankle support | Behavioural | Blood Flow Restriction Group, Conventional Physical Therapy Group |
Primary outcome
Overall Stability Index (OSI)
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
The Overall Stability Index (OSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. The OSI quantifies the overall variance of platform displacement from level during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower OSI values indicate better postural stability.
Anteroposterior Stability Index (APSI)
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
The Anteroposterior Stability Index (APSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. APSI quantifies postural sway in the sagittal (anteroposterior) plane during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower APSI values indicate better balance control in the anteroposterior direction.
Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI)
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
The Mediolateral Stability Index (MLSI) will be measured using the Biodex Balance System. MLSI quantifies postural sway in the frontal (mediolateral) plane during static balance testing and is expressed in degrees. Lower MLSI values indicate better balance control in the mediolateral direction.
Limits of stability (LOS)
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Limits of Stability (LOS) will be assessed using the Biodex Balance System SD. LOS evaluates the participant's ability to voluntarily shift the center of gravity toward predefined targets while maintaining postural control. Performance is expressed as an overall percentage score (%), with higher values indicating better dynamic balance and postural control.
2 secondary outcomes
Active Ankle Joint Position Sense
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Passive Ankle Joint Position Sense
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 6 Aug 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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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.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Blood Flow Restriction Training and Conventional Physical Therapy Program in people with Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction, run by May University in Cairo at 1 site in Egypt.
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 11 inclusion and 11 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: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 6 Aug 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 Egypt. 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. 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?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Hajar M Edris, PhD (+201122243826, hajar.mohammed@muc.edu.eg), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Overall Stability Index (OSI) (time frame: Baseline and immediately after completion of the 4-week intervention). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
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 6 Aug 2026.