What is Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training?
Blood flow restriction training is a technique used to perform exercises with a reduced amount of blood flow to the arm(s) or leg(s). It is performed using a cuff around the limb to reduce, but not completely occlude, blood flow.
The benefit of blood flow restriction training is to allow you to exercise with lower intensity, but with the benefits of high-intensity training.
Who is Blood Flow Restriction For?
BFR is beneficial to patients who have sustained an injury, who are post-operative, or who have become deconditioned. It can be used in conjunction with your physical therapy program to build or to maintain muscle mass, increase strength and improve endurance.
Blood Flow Restriction Training can help you achieve greater strength and endurance while lifting lighter loads, thereby reducing stress on your joints, fascia, and muscles.
BFR is great after joint replacement surgeries, rotator cuff repairs, ACL reconstruction and/or meniscal repairs. It is also beneficial to address issues of deconditioning with patients who have been less active, who have been immobile or have been in a cast, sling, boot, or brace.
BFR has proven beneficial to all age groups, including older patients who may find themselves struggling with strength and balance issues as well as loss of muscle mass.
BFR can also be used by health individuals looking to increase strength and muscle mass.
IS BFR SAFE?
When BFR is used with the proper precautions and safety measures, and by trained and experienced clinicians, it is highly effective and safe regardless of age or training status.
BFR should only be used under the supervision of a trained physical therapist. Our clinicians are specialists in the application of BFR, having a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, exercise, the musculoskeletal and respiratory systems, tissue healing, and recovery. In addition, each of our physical therapist has received formal education and have received advanced certifications in Blood Flow Restriction Training from The University of Tennessee and HawkGrips Academy.
