This study aims to analyze the effects of 4 weeks of low-intensity exercise with and without blood flow restriction (BFR) on pain, fear of movement, catastrophizing about pain, strength, and disability in a population with rotator cuff-related shoulder pain. There are two modalities corresponding to the same exercises under different blood flow restriction conditions: 1) 3 low-intensity exercises (30% 1RM) with BFR (50% AOP); 2) 3 low-intensity exercises (30% 1RM) without BFR.
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups and will undergo a 4-week intervention. The variables of interest will be assessed in each group for subsequent analysis and comparison.
Age between 18 and 65.
Shoulder symptoms lasting at least 3 months.
Pain in the proximal anterolateral aspect of the shoulder, aggravated by abduction.
At least two of the following tests positive: Jobe test, resisted external rotation test, Hawkins-Kennedy test, Neer test, painful arc between 60 and 120 degrees of shoulder abduction.
Pain of an intensity that prevents performance of the proposed exercises.
Active arm elevation less than 90 degrees.
Clinical signs of a complete tear (positive delayed external and internal rotation sign and positive drop arm test).
Suspected frozen shoulder (50% reduction or more than 30° loss of passive shoulder external rotation).