BFR

BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is an effective method proven to increase local muscle mass, strength, and endurance – all while using less resistance. BFR uses a strap or cuff that applies intermittent and brief pressure around a limb, similar to a tourniquet, to occlude venous flow while allowing arterial flow. This causes deoxygenated blood to remain in the limb that you are strengthening because of the cuff. This hypoxic (i.e. oxygen lacking) environment within a muscle group is likely the catalyst for a metabolic cascade of events that research has shown to: 

  • stimulate muscle protein synthesis (build muscle),  

  • alter gene regulation of muscle satellite cells (these cells build muscle and repair muscle in response to stress), and  

  • increase muscle fiber recruitment (producing a stronger muscle contraction). (Pignanelli, et al. 2021).  

With the research to back it up, BFR is being used by many rehabilitation professionals and is included in the physical therapy scope of practice. BFR allows for people to lift lighter weight while achieving the benefits of heavy lifting. In the rehabilitative setting, BFR can combat the negative effects of immobilization in the early phase of healing and accelerate the rehabilitation process for many different conditions and post op protocols. (Bielitzki R, et al. 2021).  

COMMON CONDITIONS THAT ARE TREATED USING BFR:

  • Post-operative status, including but not limited to ACL reconstruction 

  • Osteoarthritis 

  • Chronic Pain 

  • Muscle Strains 

  • Tendinopathy 

  • Post-amputation 

  • Fall Prevention 

Furthermore, research has shown that the benefits of BFR stretch beyond the effects on skeletal muscle. A systematic review published in 2021 by Miller, et al concluded that the majority of studies they reviewed reported favorable effects on the cardiovascular and endocrine systems in addition to the musculoskeletal effects noted above. (Miller BC, et al 2021).   

To sum it up, BFR training can be used as an effective tool to gain muscle strength, muscle size, and aerobic capacity for many different patient populations, including those who may be unable to perform a traditional resistance program.  

*Medical disclaimer: There are certain conditions your practitioner should screen for to determine if this is right for you. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used to replace medical advice.  

*References: Pignanelli C, Christiansen D, and Burr JF. Blood flow restriction training and the high-performance athlete: science to application. J Appl Physiol. 2021;130:1163–1170.  Bielitzki R., Behrendt T., Behrens M., Schega L. Time to Save Time: Beneficial Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training and the Need to Quantify the Time Potentially Saved by its Application during Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation. Phys. Ther. 2021;101:pzab172. doi: 10.1093/ptj/pzab172. Miller BC, Tirko AW, Shipe JM, Sumeriski OR, Moran K. The Systemic Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training: A Systematic Review. IJSPT. 2021;16(4):978-990. doi:10.26603/001c.25791 

Ready to SEE IF BFR IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Call Stability at 404.303.9153 today!

Have a question or want to start filling out paperwork in the comfort of your own space? Visit our FAQ & Client Forms page to get started!

SEE WHAT PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY ABOUT US!

“The team here is superb. Jessica is extremely knowledgeable and understands how to troubleshoot and remedy issues well beyond the obvious. Not a typical physical therapy practice, one on one with a lot of listening.”

David Favero

“Claire is wonderful! She helped me a lot with my lower back pain. I have also realized that I injured myself at a Pilates studio that does not emphasize classical Pilates. I am going to start doing Pilates at stability again!”

Haley Grove

“Stability has been a lifesaver in my life for almost a decade! I have used them for Pilates, physical therapy, dry needling and massage therapy. The staff is A+ and would do anything to help clients feel their best inside and out!

Caroline Kulinski

Real Results, Real People.

Here, you'll hear inspiring testimonials from real people who transformed their lives at Stability through Pilates and physical therapy. We believe in the power of movement to empower you, and we're dedicated to supporting your journey to move confidently with stability every step of the way.