Rehabilitation of an osteochondral fracture using blood flow restricted exercise: A case review

ObjectivesIn this case review we report on a bodybuilder who used a practical model of blood flow restriction (BFR) training to successfully rehabilitate himself following an injury to his right knee.ResultsThe patient originally thought he had torn his meniscus however repeat radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed an osteochondral fracture. The patient initially sought out a low load alternative to help with the maintenance of skeletal muscle mass. However, following rehabilitation with low load BFR resistance training, radiographs indicated that the bone had begun to heal suggesting that this type of training may also benefit bone.ConclusionsIn conclusion, this case review provides evidence that practical BFR using knee wraps can serve as an effective stimulus during rehabilitation from a knee injury.