Blood flow restriction therapy is the brief and intermittent blockage of arterial and venous blood flow using a tourniquet while at rest or exercising. Using this technique, a person can exercise with less resistance while achieving significant gains in muscle strength, size, and endurance and reducing the overall stress placed on the limb. This is especially effective after injury or orthopedic surgery.
Who is eligible for blood flow restriction therapy?
Blood flow restriction therapy can benefit those who have/had a:
- Recent surgical operation
- Post-immobilization treatment
- Joint pain
- Sports injury
How can blood flow restriction therapy help?
Benefits of participating in blood flow restriction therapy include:
- Increased muscle size
- Increased muscle strength
- Reduced muscle soreness
- Increased functional safety outcomes
How is blood flow restriction therapy work?
- Your therapist will provide several relevant exercises to complete.
- While exercising, the blood flow restriction cuffs will inflate in order to restrict blood flow to the affected area.
- Blood restriction results in limited oxygen levels in the muscle, which increases reliance on type II muscle fibers.
- Patients often report that blood flow restriction therapy “feels like you’re getting your blood pressure taken.”
How to Get This Service
To receive blood flow restriction therapy, ask your primary care provider for a referral.
For more information, call:
- Amberwell Atchison: 913-360-5550
- Amberwell Hiawatha: 785-742-6219
