Electrical stimulation combined with blood FLOW restriction post-stroke rehabilitation
This trial investigates the effects of combining cyclic electrical stimulation (CES) with blood flow restriction (BFR) on lower limb muscle strength and muscle quality in patients with stroke and severe lower limb paralysis. During the early post-stroke phase, many patients are bedridden and unable to perform voluntary muscle contractions, resulting in rapid muscle atrophy and limited rehabilitation opportunities. The study compares CES combined with real BFR versus CES with sham BFR. Primary outcomes include changes in muscle thickness, cross-sectional area, and echo intensity measured by ultrasound, while secondary outcomes assess muscle strength and usability of the intervention. The project aims to determine whether adding BFR to CES provides additional benefits for preserving muscle mass and promoting recovery of voluntary muscle function during the critical early rehabilitation stage. Findings may contribute to the development of accessible and evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for patients with severe stroke.
Funding: CSC bursary Shi Chaofan (2026-2023)
RERE PIs: Prof. Eva Swinnen, Prof. David Beckwée