Blood Flow Restriction

Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a hot topic in the profession, and explorations of its potential benefits are expanding. BFRT is part of a PT's professional scope of practice. But there are other factors to consider.

BFR can help patients to make greater strength training gains while lifting lighter loads, thereby reducing the overall stress placed on the limb. By applying the right amount of external pressure to an extremity, it’s possible to maintain arterial inflow while occluding venous outflow distal to the occlusion site.

Resources

Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT)

APTAMD developed a course to provide an overview of the history, physiologic basis, safety, ethics, and application of BFRT. The course includes a laboratory portion with video demonstration of device set up and exercise examples. References are provided throughout the presentation. Free for Members and available for purchase for non members.

Read More
APTA Official BFRT Resource Page

APTA has resources to support your practice, from licensure, to documentation, to payment.

BFRT is part of a PT's professional scope of practice. But there are other factors to consider.

Blood-flow restriction training can help patients to make greater strength training gains while lifting lighter loads, thereby reducing the overall stress placed on the limb.

Read More
Article: Blood Flow Restriction, Beyond Just Muscle

Date: Friday, July 16, 2021
Author: Johnny Owens, PT, MPT

Explorations in the potential benefits of BFR are expanding. Want to get the latest on where BFR may be headed? Join us July 23-24, when BFR expert Johnny Owens, PT, MPT, BS, delivers the next presentation in APTA's Centennial Lecture Series. CEUs are available for the event.

Read More