After enrollment, participants are randomized according to a computer-generated randomization schedule, in a ratio of 1:1 to RIC or no intervention, in blocks of four individuals. RIC is begun at least 10 min before the estimated time of first balloon inflation and its maximum duration is 30 min. Ischemia is induced by 3 cycles of inflation of a blood pressure cuff placed on the left lower limb to 200 mmHg and then deflation to 0 mmHg for another 5 minutes. Apart from temporary moderate pain in the treated thigh, RIC has been shown innocuous.