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Effect of Blood Flow Restriction Training Versus Pilates on Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Sponsor: Cairo University
Summary
Subacromial impingement syndrome (SAIS) is the most common cause of shoulder pain, accounting for a large proportion of musculoskeletal complaints. It is characterized by narrowing of the subacromial space, leading to pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and impaired shoulder function. Muscle weakness, especially of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, plays a major role in its pathomechanics. Although conventional strengthening exercises are effective, they are often delayed until pain subsides, which may prolong recovery. Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training and Pilates exercises have recently emerged as promising approaches that may enhance strength and function during earlier, painful stages of rehabilitation. However, limited research has compared both interventions in patients with SAIS. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effectiveness of BFR training versus Pilates exercises, in addition to conventional therapy, on pain, function, range of motion, muscle strength, and proprioception in patients with painful SAIS.
Official title: Blood Flow Restriction Versus Pilates Exercises in Treatment of Patients With Subacromial Impingement Syndrome
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Weeks - 55 Weeks
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
48
Start Date
2026-05-23
Completion Date
2027-01-15
Last Updated
2026-05-27
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Low load resistance training with BFR
Participants will perform low-load resistance training combined with Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and include exercises for shoulder muscles with cuffs applied to the upper arm to partially restrict blood flow, ensuring safety and gradual load progression.
Pilates exercises
Participants will perform supervised Pilates exercises 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and include mat-based exercises, resistance band work, and equipment-assisted movements targeting shoulder mobility, stability, and posture. Exercises will be progressively adjusted according to participant tolerance and performance.
Cool's shoulder exercises
: Participants will perform standard Cool's exercises 3 times per week for 4 weeks. Each session will last 45 minutes and focus on targeted shoulder rehabilitation movements designed to improve flexibility, muscle activation, and pain reduction. Exercises will be supervised and progressively adapted based on participant performance
Locations (1)
Faculty of physical therapy, Rashid university
Rāshid, Egypt