Whether you’re an athlete aiming to enhance performance or recovering from an injury or surgery, Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR) can be a game-changer for your life. BFR has been one of the most significant breakthroughs in the Physical Therapy industry, allowing physical therapists to alleviate atrophy and muscle weakness and achieve strength gains while minimizing joint stress. With BFR, physical therapists can improve patient outcomes and unlock new possibilities.
What is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR)?
Blood Flow Restriction Therapy, also known as occlusion training, uses a device such as a cuff or a wrap and places it around an arm or leg to stop partial blood flow to the affected area. Blood flow is restricted by limiting arterial flow and venous return. By restricting the blood flow, higher levels of metabolic stress are created. Metabolic stress and mechanical tension are associated with increased muscle growth. Exercises can be performed with low-load resistance training and achieve the same (if not better results) as traditional strength training.
Benefits of Blood Flow Restriction Therapy
1. Increases Muscle Growth & Strength
One of the greatest challenges after an injury or surgery is regaining muscle size and strength. Women have a greater challenge than men when recovering muscle function after an injury or surgery. Healthy males naturally have high levels of muscle-building testosterone and growth hormone to restore muscle size, whereas women have less of both. After surgery, losing muscle size takes about three days of non-use. The muscle shuts down due to the stress of a surgical process or injury. Myostatin, the hormone muscle cells produce, inhibits muscle rebuilding and promotes scar tissue to limit growth.
2. Accelerates Recovery
Occlusion training allows patients to achieve their goals in fewer sessions because it can produce similar results to traditional high-load training with lighter weights.
3. Restores Muscle Function
Rehabilitation with BFR can help minimize muscle loss and decline in strength during immobilization or injury. Additionally, it may aid in post-surgical recovery and the restoration of muscle function.
4. Improves Cardiovascular Health
Blood Flow Restriction training can affect your cardiovascular system, similar to traditional aerobic exercise. It can potentially improve important traits of cardiovascular health, like VO2 max (a measure of aerobic fitness) and endothelial function (the health of your blood vessels).
Common Conditions BFR Physical Therapy Treats
- Osteoarthritis (OA): According to studies in the Strength and Conditioning Journal, BFR can help improve OA muscle function and aid in pain management leading to improved overall function and quality of life. In general, BFR can improve joint health.
- Sports Injuries: BFR treats muscle strains, ligament sprains, or tendonitis
- Post-surgical conditions: BFR treats ACL, fractures, Achilles, rotator cuff repairs, joint replacements, etc.
- Chronic conditions: BFR treats common cardiovascular diseases such as COPD and hypertension, affecting more than millions of people.
- Muscle weakness: BFR addresses atrophy due to various causes, such as disuse, immobilization, or neurological conditions.
- Edema (inflammation & swelling): BFR stimulates fluid mobilization and improves circulation in the affected area. This can particularly benefit patients with acute or chronic swelling conditions, such as post-operative or post-traumatic cases.
BFR Assessment In Physical Therapy
Patients are assessed for their appropriate level of blow flow restriction. Physical therapists may use a specialized Doppler, which determines when complete blood flow occlusion has been attained. In addition, a personalized treatment plan and exercise program are designed to ensure the most effective outcomes.
Is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy Safe?
Many patients are initially concerned about the safety of BFR. Blow Flow Restriction Therapy is safe for post-operative patients, athletes, seniors, and anyone who desires to accelerate effective results in strengthening. Therefore, we recommend using blood flow restrictions under the guidance of a physical therapist, as exact occlusion pressure will be assessed with each patient.
Risks and Side Effects
At Foothills, we are often asked, “Does BFR cause blood clots?” BFR should not impede overall circulation or increase the risk of blood clots. Many case studies have concluded that BFR can release anti-coagulating hormones when the cuff is released.
Blood Flow Restriction Therapy is not recommended for uncontrolled high blood pressure patients. However, if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure or any cardiovascular condition, it is crucial to consult with a physical therapist or your doctor before considering BFR training. In addition, they can assess your specific medical situation, evaluate potential risks, and provide personalized guidance on whether BFR is the right fit for you.
It’s always important to prioritize your health and consult a physical therapist specializing in BFR to provide personalized guidance. If you’re curious if BFR is for you, schedule a FREE assessment near a Foothills location! We have enjoyed helping people from all walks of life return to the sports and activities they love. We look forward to introducing you to the BFR training world and witnessing its incredible impact on your fitness and rehabilitation goals.
