Blood Flow Resistance

Blood Flow Resistance (BFR) training is a technique utilizing low intensity exercise with blood flow occlusion.  This produces similar effects physiologically as high intensity training.  In the physical therapy clinic setting we focus primarily on the muscular effects.  This procedure has been used considerably in sports rehabilitation and is now considered effective for patients with diseases which inhibit them from performing high intensity training/loading. 

What does BFR do?

• prevents disuse atrophy
• promotes strengthening and muscle mass
• improves VO2 (volume oxygen) max, which is a measure of cardiorespiratory fitness
• speeds up post surgical recovery
• increases positive bone density markers
• improves functional outcomes

Who benefits from BFR?

• athletes
• elderly
• post surgery
• healthy population needing tissue healing