What is Blood Flow Restriction Training?
BFR is the brief and intermittent occlusion of arterial and venous blood flow using a tourniquet while at rest or exercising. Using this technique, you can achieve significant gains in muscle strength and size with minimal damage to the muscle or loading of the joints.
How Does BFR Work?
By restricting blood flow the muscle is forced to work in an oxygen deprived state, much like after a high intensity workout. This triggers the brain to send in anabolic and growth hormones which build and repair tissue.
The Benefits of BFR:
• Preserve muscle mass & strength during forced inactivity
• Improve bone density and promote bone growth/healing
• Increase muscle strength and size
• Improve aerobic capacity
• Accelerate recovery time after high intensity workout
BFR training has been proven to be a safe, effective method of increasing strength, endurance and aerobic capacity for a wide variety of people. As with any medical intervention, it is not recommended for all. Your therapist will consult with you regarding any risk factors.
Is BFR Safe?
What Should I Expect From My BFR Therapy Session?
Your therapist will review your medical history and determine if BFR is safe for you. Next, he/she will determine your limb occlusion pressures (LOP). This is done by applying a tourniquet to your upper arm or upper thigh, inflating the tourniquet and utilizing a Doppler device. A typical BFR session takes no more than 20-30 minutes and is often combined with other manual therapies
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