Perceptual responses to the application of blood flow restriction in different exercise programmes. A systematic review

Abstract

Introduction: Restriction of blood flow (RFS) is an adjunct to traditional training with effects on strength and hypertrophy. Its effects are still unclear, so the aim of this paper is to review the perceptual effects of RFS during different exercise programmes. Methods: We searched PubMed, Medline, Cinahl, Cochrane, Web of Science, Dialnet and PEDro. Clinical trials were included in which RFS was used in an exercise programme and perceptual variables (pain, fatigue, discomfort, perceived exertion) were studied. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the PEDro scale. Results: 24 trials using RFS on lower limb during resisted, aerobic-Anaerobic, upper limb, concentric or eccentric exercise programmes were selected. Conclusions: RFS may have perceptual effects on different exercise programmes, although these are highly determined by the physiological stress of the programme.