APPLICABILITY OF TISSUE FLOSSING FOR BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION IN THE UPPER LIMB: A STUDY OF RELIABILITY, REPRODUCIBILITY, AND PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

• Grant number: 24/01858-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: December 01, 2024
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Franciele Marques Vanderlei
• Grantee: Gabriel Martins da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR) has proven to be a method capable of promoting adaptations that improve both strength and muscle hypertrophy. With the aim of making this technique more practical and accessible, the Tissue Flossing (TF) method has emerged, involving the use of a latex elastic band capable of generating BFR and potentially causing gains similar to BFR with pressure cuffs. Objectives: To verify the intra and inter-rater reliability of occlusion pressure generated by TF application on the upper limbs (UL) through vascular and perceptual outcomes; to assess the reproducibility of TF application on different days with the same individual; and to validate TF by comparing it with BFR using a pressure cuff, considering perceptual, physiological, and musculoskeletal outcomes. Methods: The present study will be divided into two stages. Stage 1: A randomized controlled crossover clinical trial involving 80 healthy individuals aged between 18 and 30 years to determine the reliability and reproducibility of TF. Participants will undergo one of two randomization types, with exclusions based on health criteria. Assessments include anthropometric characteristics, total occlusion pressure (TOP) determination, identification of 40% and 80% TOP, flow data, and arterial diameter after TF application. Statistical analysis will use the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and specific models for intra and inter-rater analyses. Stage 2: A randomized controlled parallel-group clinical trial with 34 participants divided into two groups: group 1 (Traditional BFR) and group 2 (TF BFR). Participants will be evaluated for fifteen weeks, with an initial assessment in the first week including anthropometric measurements, TOP determination, myotonometer readings, ultrasonography, perceptual scale, and one-repetition maximum (1RM) test. In the second week, they will begin a 12-week training protocol for UL, with three sessions per week. Perceptual outcomes and myotonometer readings will be assessed before and after each session. In the eighth week, there will be a training break for an intermediate assessment, including 1RM test and ultrasonography, followed by six final weeks of training. The last week will involve final assessments measuring the same parameters evaluated initially. Statistical analysis will use normality tests, Generalized Mixed Models, and effect size analysis in SPSS software, with a significance level of p<0.05.