We use Blood flow restriction (BFR) here at Evolve Physiotherapy Swansea because it has great benefits to injury rehabilitation. It is a technique used in physiotherapy to improve muscle strength and size using low resistance exercises. The technique involves using a tourniquet or specialized wrap to restrict blood flow to the limb being exercised. This restriction leads to metabolic stress in the working muscles, which leads to muscle fatigue and a sensation of muscle burn. Click here for more in depth physiology.

There is evidence to suggest that BFR can be effective in improving muscle strength and size in individuals who are unable to perform high-intensity exercises due to injury or other limitations. For example, BFR has been shown to be effective in improving muscle strength and size in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, as well as in post-surgery rehabilitation.

Whilst the evidence is building hugely for its use in rehabilitation, BFR should be used with trained supervision only. A trained physiotherapist should carefully assess the risks and benefits of using BFR in each individual case, and to use appropriate tourniquet pressure and exercise intensity to minimize the risk of complications.

Overall, BFR can be a useful technique for improving muscle strength and size in certain populations and is hugely beneficial in sport, private practice and the healthcare sector.