What is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy?

Serving Portland OR | Vancouver WA

Blood flow restriction therapy (BFR) is a treatment designed to help patients rehabilitate muscle injuries without placing significant stress on bones, tendons, or muscles. During this treatment, a certified provider will place specialized tourniquet cuffs near the top of the injured limb to restrict blood flow to the muscle tissue. While wearing the cuff, the patient will perform light exercises as directed by their provider. Limiting venous circulation while exercising facilitates physiological adaptations, even while reducing workout intensity. For this reason, BFR is an excellent option for patients who are recovering from surgery or other injuries.

If you want to speak with an expert to determine if BFR therapy could be right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to New Heights Physical Therapy! Our skilled and compassionate providers have proudly served the Portland OR and Vancouver WA areas for years, and it’s our goal to empower you with the knowledge you need to get the best care possible. Whether you want to learn more about BFR or you’re ready to get started, we’re here to help. Give us a call today to start your healing journey!

Is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy Safe?

Multiple studies have shown that blood flow restriction therapy is safe when administered by a certified provider. This type of treatment is not advised without the guidance of a certified provider, who will be able to use your body’s occlusion pressure to determine the strength and placement of the bands. Since occlusion pressure varies from person to person, it is crucial that you work with a knowledgeable expert who can find the correct pressure for you. Attempting blood flow restriction therapy on your own not only prevents you from getting adequate results, but it could result in serious issues such as blood clots and artery or nerve damage.

What to Expect with BFR Therapy

At New Heights Physical Therapy, your BFR treatment is personalized to your unique body and goals. Prior to getting started, our knowledgeable providers will assess your body and discuss your goals to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. During your first BFR therapy session, we will calculate the correct fit and level of pressure for your cuffs. Once on your body, the cuffs will feel very similar to having your blood pressure taken. After everything is all set up, you’ll begin exercising under the direction of your provider. Though you will be using light weights to avoid disturbing the healing process of your injury, you can expect great results in terms of muscle mass and strength over time.