Blood Flow Restriction Training
Complete Game Physical Therapy is now utilizing Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) as part of the rehabilitation process for our patients. BFR is a modality that can help improve muscle strength and hypertrophy (size) in patients without excessively loading the muscle or joint. This allows for increased strength gains earlier in the rehabilitation process following surgery or when loading may be contraindicated. Recent research has shown BFR to be safe and effective for most patients and we have been seeing great results with our patients in the clinic!
How does it work?
BFR works by decreasing the amount of blood that is able to flow to and from muscle groups while exercise is being performed. A cuff is applied to the limb, and then, using the “Smart Cuff System,” it is inflated (much like a blood pressure cuff) to a specific pressure that is individualized for each patient and their needs. Once treatment pressure is achieved, you are directed through a series of exercises to stress the targeted muscles. By decreasing blood flow to these muscles, they are forced to work harder without a higher load. This allows for improvements in strength and muscle size which will help you get back to the sports and activities that you love.
Does it really improve outcomes?
YES! There have been numerous research studies that have shown that BFR is effective for increasing muscle size and strength. One study by Lorenz et al, published in the Journal of Athletic Training in 2021, showed that low load training using BFR was able to improve muscle size comparable to high load training. The best way to build muscle strength is to apply a heavy load to stress it through a motion. However, early in rehabilitation this may be contraindicated due to postoperative restrictions or pain. BFR allows for an increased stress on the muscle without an excessive load. Another study by Hughes et al, published in Sports Medicine in 2019, found “BFR improves skeletal muscle hypertrophy and strength to a similar extent to high load resistance training with a greater reduction in knee joint pain and effusion, leading to greater overall improvements in physical function.”
Is it Safe?
YES! BFR has been proven safe in most patients. Before beginning BFR treatment your Doctor of Physical Therapy will review your health history with you to ensure that this modality is safe for you to use and aligns with your treatment goals. Our therapists are all trained in BFR use and will be able to answer any questions or concerns that you may have prior to beginning BFR treatment.
Is BFR right for me?
At Complete Game Physical Therapy we treat athletes of all ages and skill levels from weekend warriors to professional. Our mission is to provide the best care possible and get our patients back to the activities that they love! If you are having any pain or limitations that are stopping you from performing your needed activities, take the time to schedule an appointment with one of our Doctors of Physical Therapy. During your first visit, we will be able to answer any questions and determine if BFR is right for you! If you are interested in or have any questions about physical therapy or BFR please contact us at 978-710-7204 or via email at alevanti@completegamept.com.
Sources
Lorenz DS, Bailey L, Wilk KE, Mangine RE, Head P, Grindstaff TL, Morrison S. Blood Flow Restriction Training. J Athl Train. 2021 Sep 1;56(9):937-944. doi: 10.4085/418-20. PMID: 34530434; PMCID: PMC8448465.
Hughes L, Rosenblatt B, Haddad F, Gissane C, McCarthy D, Clarke T, Ferris G, Dawes J, Paton B, Patterson SD. Comparing the Effectiveness of Blood Flow Restriction and Traditional Heavy Load Resistance Training in the Post-Surgery Rehabilitation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Patients: A UK National Health Service Randomized Controlled Trial. Sports Med. 2019 Nov;49(11):1787-1805. doi: 10.1007/s40279-019-01137-2. PMID: 31301034.