What is Blood Flow Restriction (BFR)?
Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) is a training technique where a cuff is applied to a limb to reduce blood flow during resistance or aerobic exercise. This method allows for muscle growth and rehabilitation with lighter weights, reducing joint stress and tissue damage.
Benefits of BFR
BFR increases muscle size, strength, power, and bone density. It promotes better blood flow, accelerates tissue healing, and limits scar tissue. This technique is ideal for those who cannot tolerate high-intensity exercise, such as post-surgery patients, injury recovery, and older adults. Studies show BFR can boost muscle growth 1.7 times faster than traditional methods.
How It Works
By restricting blood flow, BFR causes blood pooling and metabolite buildup, which stimulates muscle growth and recovery, both in the restricted limb and throughout the body.
BFR at Fitzgerald PT
With over 820 studies supporting its effectiveness, BFR combined with low-load resistance training is proven to enhance muscle growth and strength significantly, making it a valuable rehabilitation tool.
BFR aids in the following injuries
- Total joint replacements
- Achilles tendon repairs
- Fractures
- Rotator cuff repairs
- Muscle strains
- Nerve injuries
- Post-op cartilage arthroscopies/reconstructions
- Tendinopathies
- ACL/ligamentous surgeries
*** Offers no greater risk than traditional exercise.
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