The effect of acute and repeated ischemic preconditioning on recovery following exercise-induced muscle damage

Objectives The aim of this investigation was to determine if acute or repeated applications ischemic preconditioning (IPC) could enhance the recovery process, following exercise induced muscle damage (EIMD). Design Randomized control trial. Methods Twenty-three healthy males were familiarised with damaging protocol (five sets 20 drop jumps from a 0.6 m box) and randomly allocated one three groups: SHAM (3 × 5 min at mmHg), Acute IPC 220 mmHg) Repeated days x 3 mmHg). indices measured included creatine kinase concentration ([CK]), thigh swelling, delayed onset soreness, counter movement (CMJ) maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Results Both improved in MVIC versus SHAM. led faster 48 h (101.5%) relative (92.6%) (84.4%) (P < 0.05). Less swelling found for both vs. 0.05) but no group effects CMJ, soreness [CK] responses > Conclusion Taken together, can time more than an application, reduce EIMD, condition.