Blood Flow Restriction Exercise Training - Red Wing

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training is an exercise method that allows patients to lift much less weight but produce strength gains that are similar to high-weight strength training, due to the blood flow restriction component. BFR can be effective for post surgical patients, patients wanting to increase muscle mass to improve performance, and has also been shown to reduce muscle atrophy, which is important for patients who cannot exercise.

This treatment is performed by a physical therapist and involves the use of a cuff like a blood pressure cuff. The cuff inflates to the proper amount, as determined by a doppler machine. The patient then exercises as instructed by the physical therapy staff.

During the intake process, a physical therapist will determine if this treatment is appropriate or if there are any excluding factors, such as having a blood clotting disorder. If able to proceed, the physical therapy staff will determine a personal treatment plan that could include strength training exercises and cardiovascular exercises.