Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR) is an emerging technology that is being used effectively to reduce atrophy, build muscle strength, and improve tendon healing and tissue quality. Just what is BFR, and who can benefit? Here is a basic guide to this new technology used at Snyder Physical Therapy.

What Is BFR?

BFR is a treatment technique in which the blood flow to a limb is partially occluded, similar to a blood pressure cuff. The Physical Therapist sets up the system to a personalized pressure unique to the patient and then the patient is taken through an exercise program to build strength and improve tissue healing.

How Does BFR Work? 

When a BFR cuff system is used on a patient, it reduces the blood flow to that extremity. This reduced blood flow results in positive changes in the patient’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments at much lower exercise intensities than is typically needed without BFR. This means that we can load a body part with exercises that don’t stress the healing area, but still result in improved strength and muscle size.

Who Can Benefit From BFR?

Due to the low exercise loads used with BFR, it is an excellent choice for many injury types; post surgical rehab, acute muscle strains, and any joint injury where regular high intensity exercise would be too difficult or impossible to perform.         

For more BFR information view our blog!

If you’d like to learn more about Blood Flow Restriction Therapy, contact Snyder Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, serving Lincoln and Lancaster County, NE. For nearly 30 years, this state-of-the-art rehabilitation center has been helping athletes and other clients recover from debilitating physical injuries. From knee pain to sports rehab, they provide customized treatments and utilize a wide variety of techniques, including BFR, manual therapy, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic massage. Visit their website for more on their services or call (402) 489-1999 to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist.