This systematic review investigated the effect of low-load resistance training combined with blood-flow restriction (LLBFR)on falls in older adults ≥60 years of age. The databases Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Library were searched frominception to October 1st, 2019 and reference lists of retrieved publications. Main outcomes were fall rates or proportionof fallers. Additional outcomes were physical performance, lower extremity muscle strength or function, and balance.Mean difference ±SD on falls and fall related outcomes were reported and Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool wasused to evaluate quality of evidence. Eight RCT-studies met the inclusion criteria. None reported falls data. Assessingphysical performance tests (n=12), 8/12 of the LL-BFR groups showed a significant within-group improvement and 5/12significant between-group effects comparing LL-BFR to respective controls. For muscle strength tests (n=16), 9/16showed significant positive within-group improvement and 3/16 significant between-group effects. One study reporteddata on balance with conflicting results. In conclusion, LL-BFR might increase physical performance and muscle strengthin older adults ≥60 years of age. None of the included studies investigated the effect on falls. Larger adequately poweredstudies are required before introducing LL-BFR as an alternative exercise modality to decrease fall risk.
展开▼
