Blood Flow Restriction Training

Blood flow restriction (BFR) training is becoming more well-known and popular in the field of physical therapy over the last several years for musculoskeletal and orthopedic conditions. While there is encouraging research supporting this treatment modality, randomized controlled trials are needed for further research. BFR training consists of low-load exercises performed while wearing a tourniquet on the proximal limb, which partially restricts arterial flow and venous return from the extremity. In healthy patients, gains in muscle protein synthesis, gene regulation of muscle satellite cells, fiber recruitment, hypertrophy, and endurance have been observed. BFR is particularly attractive in post-surgical patients where strength gains can be made with lower mechanical stress on healing tissues.

In a study by Bowman et al. in 2019, statistically greater increases in strength were seen in the legs of patients who completed blood flow restriction training compared to the untrained extremity and the control group (nearly twice the control group). Isokinetic testing showed greater increases in peak torque, total work, and average power for the BFR group. This is one of many studies to come out in the last several years showing that blood flow restriction training both safe and effective for improving lower extremity strength.

If you need sports physical therapy in Cincinnati, and want to try blood flow restriction training give us a call or a text today!