Schedule an Appointment Today

760-444-0102

We strive for 100% patient satisfaction.
Our clinics are spacious.
We offer on-site Aquatic Therapy.
We use the latest techniques and technologies.
Vista
Rancho Bernardo
National City
Mission Valley
Carmel Valley
Carlsbad

What is Blood Flow Restriction Training?

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training uses a pressurized cuff to apply external pressure on an extremity, which maintains arterial inflow but occluded venous outflow. Doing this produces a systemic response comparative to heavy weight training. In short, the goal is to enable users to make greater strength gains while lifting lighter loads, thereby reducing the overall stress placed on the limb. Users usually work at 20-30% 1RM or 15-20 min at 40% VO2max.

How does it work:

In simple terms, BFR Promotes blood pooling in capillary beds in limb musculature distal to tourniquet. Blood pooling increased metabolic stress resulting in muscle hypertrophy without heavy load resistance required in traditional strength training.

Who can benefit from BFR:

BFR training can be performed in a regular fitness routine, but can also be safe for those who are recovering from an injury or those who cannot tolerate high-load strength training. BFR training can also safely be used on patients in the acute phase of rehabilitation following most upper or lower extremity surgeries, including ACL reconstruction, meniscectomy, hip/knee replacement, rotator cuff repair or any tendon repair. Patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteopenia or osteoporosis may also benefit from BFR.

References:

1. Cezar MA, et al. Effects of exercise training with blood flow restriction on blood pressure in medicated hypertensive patients. Motriz. 2016. 22(2): 9-17.

2. Nakajima T, et al. Use and safety of KAATSU training: Results of a national survey. International Journal of Kaatsu Training Research. 2006. 2: 5-13.

3. Heitkamp, HC, et al. Training with blood flow restriction mechanisms, gain in strength and safety. The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness. 2015; 55(5), 9–15.

4. Nakajima T. Key Considerations when conducting KAATSU training. Int. J. KAATSU Training Res. 2011; 7: 1-6.

5. Loenneke JP, et al. Potential Safety Issues with blood flow restriction training. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2011; 21(4): 510-518.

About the Author - Alberto

Alberto Pesqueira started his journey to become physical therapist at UCSD were he received a Bachelors of Science degree in biology. He continued his education by attending the University of St. Augustine where he graduated with his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Alberto demonstrates his passion for helping people achieve long-term functional goals by gaining knowledge through continuing education in orthopedic manual therapy and evidence-based practice in both the physical therapy and fitness industries. Alberto enjoys working with people of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their functional goals through hands on therapy and appropriately selected exercises and appropriate life modifications. Alberto specializes in all orthopedic diagnoses with a focus on shoulder pain, low back pain and knee pain. With collegiate golf experience, and his certification through the Titleist Performance Institute, Alberto's focus is also on golf specific injuries, injury prevention and performance enhancement to keep the competitive or weekend warrior on the course. Alberto is currently the Director of our Golf Program at ProActive Physical Therapy.