Blood Flow Restriction Training: Understanding the Safety, Mechanisms, and Efficacy, 2nd Edition: Summary 13
Achilles Tendon Repair
The sample program for Achilles tendon repair begins 4 weeks post-op. Patients start with ambulation as tolerated with a cam walker boot and non-weight-bearing exercises. The program is divided into two phases: Phase 1 (weeks 4-8 post-op) : • BFRT-AE with cycling • BFRT-RT with non-weight bearing exercises (straight arc quads, long arc quads, straight leg raise flexion/abduction, bridging) Phase 2 (weeks 8-12 post-op) : • BFRT-RT with weight-bearing exercises (leg press, step ups/downs, calf raises for soleus and gastrocnemius) The program emphasizes gradual progression and monitoring of patient response.
Elite Athletes
Elite athletes can use BFRT for: • In-season training. BFRT allows athletes to maintain or even increase strength and muscle mass without the fatigue and muscle damage associated with heavy lifting • Recovery. Intermittent BFRT can be used post-exercise to enhance recovery. One protocol involves applying occlusion cuffs for 2 x 3-min periods with 3 min rest in between, using a pressure of 100% LOP or more • Performance enhancement. A sample program for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with BFRT was presented. This protocol aims to enhance both aerobic capacity and muscular adaptations simultaneously. It involves: ○ Warm-up: ○ 4 sets of interval training on a cycle: ■ 3 min at 90% of max HR (~ 85% VO2max), without BFRT ■ 3 min rest with BFR at 40% of LOP ○ Cool-down CONCLUSION
prescription, is crucial for safety and efficacy. As research continues to expand our understanding of BFRT, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in rehabilitation, fitness, and sports performance settings. ACCESS THE FULL VIDEO PRESENTATION Scan the QR CODE ► to start video or visit https://uqr.to/BFR_Training
Blood flow restriction training represents a powerful tool in the arsenal of physical therapists, trainers, and other health professionals. When applied correctly, it offers the potential for significant improvements in muscle strength, size, and function, as well as cardiovascular fitness, using much lower loads than traditional training methods. This makes it particularly valuable for populations that may not tolerate high-load training. However, proper application, including thorough screening, correct pressure determination, and appropriate exercise
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