Joonshik Yoon

Korea University Guro Hospital, South Korea

Predicting BFR Exercise Response Based on Baseline Functional Status in Sarcopenic Patients

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Biography

Joon Shik Yoon, MD, PhD, is a Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Korea University Guro Hospital and Korea University College of Medicine. He specializes in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, neuromuscular disorders, and geriatric rehabilitation. He has extensive clinical and research experience in ultrasound-guided assessment, electrodiagnostic medicine, and functional evaluation of aging-related conditions. He has led multiple clinical studies and contributed to advancements in the diagnosis and management of sarcopenia, pain syndromes, and peripheral nerve disorders. His academic work focuses on integrating evidence-based rehabilitation strategies to improve functional outcomes and quality of life for patients with chronic musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions.

Abstract

Objectives: Sarcopenia, a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and function, presents a growing burden in aging populations. Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) exercise has been proposed as a feasible intervention for older adults with limited exercise tolerance. Identifying baseline functional predictors for responsiveness to BFR training could guide personalized rehabilitation strategies.

Methods: This exploratory study included 10 older adults diagnosed with sarcopenia who completed a 4-week low-load BFR exercise program. Baseline and post-intervention evaluations included the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Participants were categorized as responders (?20% improvement in SPPB) and non-responders, and comparisons were made regarding baseline function.

Results: Among the 10 participants, 8 (80%) were classified as responders. Responders had a lower baseline SPPB score (7.88 ± 0.99) compared to non-responders (9.00 ± 0.00), yet demonstrated significantly greater improvement (35.9% ± 11.6% vs. 5.6% ± 7.9%). All responders showed functional mobility gains, while non-responders exhibited minimal changes.

Conclusion: Lower baseline physical performance may predict greater responsiveness to BFR training in sarcopenic patients. These findings suggest that individuals with lower initial functional capacity may derive more pronounced benefits, highlighting the potential for BFR to serve as a targeted intervention in this population.