Description
Objectives: To evaluate the experiences and opinions of low-load blood flow restriction training (LL-BFRT) and heavy-load resistance training (HLRT) after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).
Methods: A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Athletes who underwent LL-BFRT (n=5) or HLRT (n=5) after ACLR were interviewed by an independent researcher. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed. All patients underwent a supervised criteria-based rehabilitation. LL-BFRT and HLRT consisted of biweekly strength training for twelve weeks and started two weeks after ACLR.
Results: Patients' satisfaction after LL-BFRT and HLRT was 8.5 and 7.9, respectively. All participants stated that the given information about the rehabilitation was adequate. All participants experienced an increase in muscle strength. Participants who underwent LL-BFRT experienced pain during but not after the training session, while participants who underwent HLRT experienced pain during and after the training session.
Conclusions: Patients' experiences and opinions support that LL-BFRT may be an alternative to HLRT in the early phase after ACLR.
