Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training has gained recent popularity in the rehabilitation, fitness, and performance industries over the past decade. The early origins of BFR stem from the 1960’s when scientists noticed improved walking tolerances in people with intermittent claudication after a physical training program. This led to a cascade of research (some useful and some haphazardly dangerous) to determine the mechanism and clinical applicability of BFR. Although enticing, anytime an intervention comes along that claims a low-intensity exercise performed with a blood pressure cuff will result in improved strength gains, performance, recovery, and even pain reduction, one could (and should) become quite skeptical.
While a healthy amount of skepticism is paramount when navigating the literature, we must weigh the breadth and quality of the research to formulate final conclusions of its application and benefit.
| Strong Support |
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Improved Muscle Hypertrophy
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| Moderate Support |
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Occlusion Pressure
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| Weak Support |
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Performance and Recovery Enhancement
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Key Points
- In patients who cannot tolerate high loads, BFR training at low loads (15-30% 1-RM) can elicit similar muscular hypertrophy gains similar to those of conventional high-load training.
- Training pressures should be between 40-80% LOP for LE and 30-60% for LE. Wider cuffs require lower pressures and are better tolerated.
- With proper screening for vascular compromise, clotting disorders, embolism risk, renal compromise, and hypertension, safe application of BFR can be completed. Tailor pressure for each individual patient, exercise, and position to be performed in.
References:
Whiteley, R. (2019). Blood flow restriction training in rehabilitation: A useful adjunct or Lucy’s latest trick? Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 49(5), 294–298. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2019.0608
