Ankle instability review finds better function scores with blood flow restriction training
Trials favored the training for chronic ankle instability, but some were low quality and the practical importance of score changes remains uncertain.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Pooled randomized trials reported improvements in ankle function scores, balance test performance and selected muscle measures with blood flow restriction training compared with control groups. Some studies were low quality, and the abstract does not report whether the measured gains translated into fewer ankle injuries or sustained improvements in daily life.
Some included studies were low quality. The abstract does not describe treatment durations, control programs or adverse events, and the authors call for larger, stronger trials.
What researchers found
Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool score
Compared with control groups, training yielded higher scores. The confidence interval gives a plausible range for the average score advantage; assessment timing was not reported.
What the review measured
The central finding concerns an ankle function score. Researchers also assessed forward reach on a balance test, strength in selected ankle muscles and muscle activation, providing distinct measures of performance.
Statistical and practical meaning
The score advantage was statistically significant, but that does not establish how noticeable it was to participants. The abstract gives no threshold for a meaningful change, so practical importance remains uncertain.
The original publication
Effects of blood flow restriction training on patients with chronic ankle instability: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Liu M, Pu Lu Bi S, Cao Y
BMC Musculoskelet Disord · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41126135
- Record checked
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