Utilization of Vascular Restriction Training in post-surgical knee rehabilitation: a case report and introduction to an under-reported training technique.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this paper is to introduce a new and reportedly safe training technique, utilizing a vascular restriction stimulus during low intensity rehabilitative exercise and provide a case example within a post-surgical rehabilitation scenario. A brief review of the most commonly reported mechanisms of action behind the purported success of the training stimulus is included.
METHODS: 19-year-old athlete presented for an accelerated post-operative knee rehabilitation program. She received a commonly utilized rehabilitation program that was supplemented with vascular restriction stimulus.
RESULTS: The patient maintained muscle cross-sectional area and had improved function at a 12-week follow-up.
CONCLUSION: Low intensity exercise supplemented with vascular restriction may prove to be an efficient and effective means of maintaining post-surgical muscle size and subjective knee function.