JMHS will Pump You Up

Blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy temporarily reduces the blood supply, strengthening targeted muscles to help with rehab.

The rehab team at Johnson Memorial has a new tool, Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR), in its toolbox. Offered since December 2023, BFR strengthens muscles without putting undue stress on an injured limb. For example, someone who lifts 50 pounds will receive the same therapeutic benefit by lifting 15 pounds. BFR works by temporarily reducing the blood supply with a tourniquet high on the arm or leg.

“It’s a specialized blood pressure cuff,” says Bonnie Will, head of the rehab team. “So, it is a little uncomfortable. But after that, it’s more of a fatigue, so it’s not painful.”

“Research shows that blood flow restriction therapy increases strength quicker than traditional strength building,” says physical therapist Rachel Hakanson. “If someone is unable to weight bear due to surgical restrictions, they can still progress strengthening with the use of BFR with non-weight bearing exercise.” It’s especially valuable for patients with a long post-surgical recovery, which can last weeks or months for some procedures. BFR ensures the affected area is strong and ready to go when the patient resumes daily activities.

On average, patients receive BFR twice weekly for 4 weeks plus exercises at home. “It’s an option the therapy department considers when a patient comes in for an initial assessment.”

Would you like to learn more about BFR for yourself or a loved one? Call 320-312-2128

Learn more about our Physical Therapy Department.