Blood Flow Restriction Training in Rehabilitation: Application for Injury Recovery

Abstract

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training has emerged as a novel approach in rehabilitation for injury recovery, offering a unique solution to the challenges of preserving muscle mass and strength during the healing process. BFR involves applying external pressure to partially restrict blood flow to working muscles, allowing individuals to exercise at lower intensities while still achieving significant strength gains. This paper explores the mechanisms of BFR, its application in various injury recovery protocols, the benefits, risks, and practical guidelines for its use in clinical rehabilitation. The growing body of research on BFR suggests its effectiveness in enhancing recovery, reducing muscle atrophy, and promoting functional gains, particularly in orthopedic and sports medicine contexts.