Date Approved
4-24-2025
Graduate Degree Type
Project
Degree Name
Athletic Training (M.A.T.)
Degree Program
Health Professions
First Advisor
Tonya Parker
Academic Year
2024/2025
Abstract
Background: Blood flow restriction (BFR) is gaining popularity in strength gains and muscle hypertrophy.
Purpose: The study aimed to assess if BFR can change Achilles tendon size and to compare the size of the tendon based on the thigh or calf placement of the cuff.
Methods: Participants received an ultrasound guided measurement at baseline, mid-intervention, and post-intervention to assess the cross-sectional area of the tendon. Participants completed a six week BFR intervention where the cuff was randomly assigned to either thigh or calf placement on the non-dominant leg. Participants completed multiple repetitions of straight and bent knee calf raises with the limb occlusion pressure of the cuff set at 50%.
Results: The interaction of group and time measurement was not significant. The groups did not differ in how they responded to BFR. There was a significant effect of time found.
Conclusion: There were significant increases in Achilles tendon growth for both groups with the use of BFR. There appeared to be no difference in tendon hypertrophy outcomes based on where the cuff was placed. Keywords: Blood flow restriction, Achilles tendon, lower extremity
ScholarWorks Citation
Jajko, Lacey and Whitehouse, Anja, "Blood Flow Restriction and the Achilles Tendon" (2025). Culminating Experience Projects. 568.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/gradprojects/568
