Dual-task improvement of older adults after treadmill walking combined with blood flow restriction of low occlusion pressure: the effect on the heart–brain axis

Objective: This study explored the impact of one session of low-pressure leg blood flow restriction (BFR) during treadmill walking on dual-task performance in older adults using the neurovisceral integration model framework. Methods: Twenty-seven older adults participated in 20-min treadmill sessions, either with BFR (100 mmHg cuff pressure on both thighs) or without it (NBFR). Dual-task performance, measured through light-pod tapping while standing on foam, and heart rate variability during treadmill walking were compared. Results: Following BFR treadmill walking, the reaction time (p = 0.002) and sway area (p = 0.012) of the posture dual-task were significantly reduced. Participants exhibited a lower mean heart rate (p < 0.001) and higher heart rate variability (p = 0.038) during BFR treadmill walking. Notably, BFR also led to band-specific reductions in regional brain activities (theta, alpha, and beta bands, p < 0.05). The topology of the EEG network in the theta and alpha bands became more star-like in the post-test after BFR treadmill walking (p < 0.005). Conclusion: BFR treadmill walking improves dual-task performance in older adults via vagally-mediated network integration with superior neural economy. This approach has the potential to prevent age-related falls by promoting cognitive reserves.