Study Summary

One hundred twenty patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomised to receive either traditional low-intensity exercise therapy (n=60) or the same exercise therapy with additional blood flow restriction (n=60). The primary outcome was the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at 3-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes included quadriceps strength, pain catastrophising, and multiple functional tests (e.g., chair stand, stair climb, walk tests). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 3 months post-intervention. Overall, the results of the study revealed that the BFR group showed significantly greater improvements in KOOS pain, symptoms, and quality of life, as well as sustained benefits in quadriceps strength and functional performance. These findings suggest that BFR enhances the effectiveness of exercise therapy in KOA without requiring high mechanical loads.