New research suggests partially restricting blood flow to muscles during exercise can reduce pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis while improving their strength and performance.
Blood flow restricted resistance training involves placing a cuff around the top of the limb doing the exercise to reduce blood flow. Even when using lighter weights with less effort, this technique makes the muscles work harder.
Researchers at the University of South Australia are the first to study blood flow restricted resistance training on the upper and lower limbs of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), paving the way for further research and larger trials.
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The study involved participants taking part in five exercises working the arms and legs, and gradually increasing the weights. The results showed the participants’ pain levels, strength and movement improved.
Dr Hunter Bennett, lead researcher, explained: “RA can cause a loss of muscle mass and strength, which affects day-to-day activities, independence, and increases the risk of falls and fractures.
“Resistance training is one of the best ways to rebuild that strength, but for people with RA, using heavy weights can be difficult or harmful due to pain, fatigue or injury risk. This is where blood flow restricted resistance training can help.”
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He continued: “Many people with health conditions are understandably deterred by exercise, yet it is often one of the best things they can do to improve their condition.
“This kind of training could be a game-changer for people with RA. It offers a way to build strength and reduce pain without pushing through discomfort — and that’s incredibly empowering for people who’ve often been limited by their condition.”
The research was published in the journal Disability and Rehabilitation.
