Strength Training with Blood Flow Restriction: Effect on Factors Associated with Sarcopenia in Older Women

Abstract

Sarcopenia is a major health problem for older adults. Traditional muscle strength training can lead to a reduction in sarcopenia, but high loads make it difficult to apply for older adults. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of strength training with partial blood flow restriction (PBFR) on factors associated with sarcopenia in older Mexican women. Analytical and longitudinal research with a pre-post quasi-experimental design was carried out. Sixteen older women participated in the study (70.87±5.47 years, height of 150.11±3.69 cm, and a body weight of 66.6±9.9 kg). Muscular strength training with partial blood flow restriction to the lower limbs for 12 weeks was performed. Muscle mass index was evaluated, the general muscle strength was calculated using hand dynamometry; the functionality was evaluated with the time get up and go test and specific strength with the Chair stand test. A statistical difference pre- and post-intervention in the strength of the right hand (p<0.05), and the specific strength (p<0.05) was found, without changes in the muscle mass index and functionality (p≥0.05). It was concluded that strength training with loads between 20%-50% combined with PBFR, for lower limbs in older adults, generates positive effects on general and specific strength, a parameter related to sarcopenia.