Blood Flow Restriction Training

WHAT IS BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING (BFR)?

Blood flow restriction (BFR) training is the brief and intermittent occlusion of venous blood flow using a tourniquet in conjunction with exercise. It helps patients improve their strength and grow muscles while reducing pain. BFR speeds up recovery times, helps patients get stronger, and is safe to healing joints, tendons, and other surgically repaired tissues. We offer BFR at all of our outpatient clinics (Georgetown, Millville, and Rehoboth) in conjunction with our physical therapy and occupational therapy plan of cares. For maximal results it is performed two to three times a week for a minimum of 4 weeks.

WHAT IS THE MECHANISM BEHIND POSITIVE RESULTS FOR BFR?

The exact mechanism behind the positive benefits seen with PBFR is still being researched extensively. The benefits of PBFR are likely due to a combination of multiple factors: the significant build up of metabolites by anaerobic metabolism, a systemic anabolic response, and cellular swelling. Multiple research studies also suggest that muscle protein synthesis plays a primary role in the strength gains seen with PBFR. You should discuss proper nutrition guidelines with your healthcare provider to maximize these results.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING?

Reduced Pain
Improved Strength
Improved Muscle Growth
Improved Tissue Healing

WHAT EQUIPMENT IS USED WITH BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING?

At Beebe Healthcare, we have physical therapists that are trained and certified to perform Blood Flow Restriction Training through industry leader Owens Recovery Science. Each of our locations offer BFR training using the Delfi PTS equipment which allows for personalized, safe, efficient, and accurate training. The Delfi PTS equipment has fully automated personalized occlusion pressures instead of manual occlusion pressures which helps to ensure the safety of our patients.

ARE THERE ANY SAFETY CONCERNS AND/OR SIDE EFFECTS?

Adverse side effects are rare. The most common effects after this training are residual swelling in the limb, a fatigued muscle, and possible mild soreness. These are transient and usually resolve within 24 hours. If you have prolonged swelling, fatigue or soreness discuss this with your healthcare provider along with any other concerns you may have.