Posted 07.26.2023

Blood Flow Restriction or BFR is growing in popularity in the world of physical therapy, especially at InstaCare Physical Therapy.

All of our therapists are Certified in Blood Flow Restriction Training.

BFR is an innovative technology that we utilize to expedite the recovery process of our athletes.

Posted 07.26.2023

What is Blood Flow Restriction Training?

BFRT is the intermittent occlusion of blood flow to a limb while exercising with lighter weights. The occlusion of blood flow creates an environment in the muscle tissue that simulates the effects of High Intensity Training (HIT). This allows injured athletes to increase size and strength during the rehabilitation process at a time when they may not be ready to tolerate heavier loads (~ 80% 1RM).

What are the benefits of Blood Flow Restriction?

Recent studies have shown that BFR can:

Promote muscle hypertrophy (increase muscle size)

Increase muscle strength

Reduce atrophy

Increase aerobic capacity

How does it work?

The intermittent occlusion of blood flow while exercising is shown to:

Increase recruitment of larger fast-twitch muscle fibers

Stimulate of the production of Growth Hormone (GH)

Stimulate the production of Muscle Protein Synthesis (MPS)

Who can benefit from Blood Flow Restriction Training?

BFR is shown to be successful in the treatment of a plethora of conditions including tendinopathies such as tennis elbow, achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, rotator cuff tendonitis, patellar tendonitis. Additionally, BFRT is great for osteoarthritis, rotator cuff injuries, patellofemoral pain syndrome, chondromalacia patella, post-operatively (ACL Reconstruction, Meniscal Surgery, Achilles Tendon Repair, etc.), and much more!

Learn more about the innovative Blood Flow Restriction technology we utilize at InstaCare Physical Therapy by visiting https://www.smarttoolsplus.com/