Blood Flow Restriction (BFR)

Pain, injury and surgery can lead to muscles becoming weaker and smaller, causing slow recovery times and decreased functional ability. Resistance training at high loads has been shown to be an effective way of increasing muscle mass and strength,however pain, surgical restrictions, fear, and other barriers can limit its usage.

Blood flow restriction (BFR) training is a way to train at low loads and produce similar results to training at high loads. BFR involves exercising at low intensities with a cuff that restricts but does not occlude blood flow. The restriction of blood flow puts an increased metabolic stress on the muscles and stimulates musclegrowth. Essentially the body is tricked into believing it is training at a much higher intensity and adapts by increasing muscle size and strength. BFR is a low risk intervention and can be applied to a wide population. Proper screening of cardiovascular health, communication with the medical team, and individualized cuff pressures ensure a safe and effective use of BFR in the clinic.

BFR can be an effective way of building muscle size and strength for early post- surgical patients, patients with arthritis, and anyone with pain or other barriers preventing high intensity loading. At Zero Gravity Physiotherapy, physiotherapist Caleb Coolen uses BFR in his practice and will be happy to apply it in your rehab program if appropriate.