The Effect of Low-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Therapy on the Management of Acute Ankle Sprains

The Effect of Low-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Therapy on the Management of Acute Ankle Sprains

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of implementing BFR in the rehabilitation treatment of isolated ankle sprains as well as to evaluate the clinical benefits of BFR when compared to standard treatment. This study will evaluate the efficacy of using BFR therapy for the treatment of acute grade I and II ankle sprains. The investigators will evaluate clinical outcomes of range of motion (ROM) and strength testing of ankle dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion.

This will be a small, randomized control trial study. The investigators will enroll a total of 40 participants, 20 participants will undergo standard physical therapy for isolated lateral ankle sprains and 20 participants will undergo BFR therapy for an isolated lateral ankle sprain. Patients will be randomized into control and experimental group via block randomization.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients will include English speaking student athletes aged 18 and older with clinical diagnosis of an isolated grade I or II lateral ankle sprain

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of DVT/PE, clotting disordered, peripheral arterial disease, hypertension (BP>140/90), coronary artery disease, or pregnancy