Blood Flow Restriction Training
Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training
BFR Training is a strengthening technique used to help gain muscle function. It is done by temporarily restricting blood flow to a muscle group during exercise. BFR Training uses low-intensity exercise to achieve strength gains typically seen with high-intensity training. Many patients in our physical therapy clinic are unable to lift heavy weights – sometimes because of pain, immobilization, or because of surgery. BFR Training can be a great rehabilitation tool because it allows patients to reap the benefits of an intense heavy weight-lifting session while only requiring the patient to utilize low - to moderate intensity resistances. This reduces stress to tissues that may be healing from a recent injury or surgery. During BFR Training, a patient or athlete performs high repetitions of a particular exercise while wearing a band or cuff around their upper arm or upper leg with the use of light resistance.
What Are The Benefits From Blood Flow Restriction?
Improved muscular strength
Increased muscular cross-sectional area
Prevention of muscular atrophy
Development of newer and healthier blood vessels
Improved bone mineral density
Hormonal release similar to high intensity resistance training
How Does Blood Flow Restriction Work?
BFR Causes Muscles to Work Harder
With Rock Cuff BFR training, BFR bands are placed near one’s upper arms and/or upper legs. It is important to note that the Rock Cuff BFR bands do not cause complete occlusion of arterial blood (oxygen-rich blood flowing from the heart to the limbs), so it can be safe for most patients. Rock Cuff BFR bands partially restrict the venous blood return. This oxygen-deficient environment in the muscle produces muscular strengthening while using light loads.
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