Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Therapy

Accelerate Recovery. Build Strength. Maximize Results—Even After Surgery.

At Vertex PT Specialists, we use Blood Flow Restriction Therapy (BFR) to help patients recover faster and rebuild muscle without lifting heavy weights. Whether you’re recovering from ACL reconstruction, a rotator cuff repair, or a total knee replacement, BFR allows us to stimulate strength and hypertrophy safely—even in the early stages of rehab.

What Is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy?

BFR therapy involves placing a specialized tourniquet system on the upper arm or leg to partially restrict blood flow during low-load resistance exercise. This technique creates a metabolic and hormonal environment similar to high-intensity training—but with loads as low as 20–30% of your one-rep max.

With over 160+ peer-reviewed studies supporting its use, BFR is a game-changer for physical therapy and post-op rehab.

Who Benefits from BFR?

BFR is ideal for patients who are unable to tolerate heavy lifting due to pain, surgical precautions, or medical limitations. Common conditions treated with BFR include:

  • ACL reconstruction
  • Total knee or hip replacements
  • Rotator cuff repairs
  • Achilles tendon repairs
  • Fractures or immobilization injuries
  • Cartilage procedures (e.g., meniscus, microfracture)
  • Tendinopathies and muscle strains
  • Post-operative deconditioning
  • Athletes returning from injury

How Does BFR Work?

BFR stimulates muscle protein synthesis, increases growth hormone release, and enhances muscular endurance. You get the same strength and hypertrophy benefits of heavy lifting—without the joint stress.

It’s especially effective when applied early in the rehab process, allowing for meaningful muscle activation even when traditional strength training isn’t yet possible.

Why Choose Vertex PT for BFR Therapy?

  • Certified & Experienced: Our team uses surgical-grade BFR cuffs and follows safety protocols backed by clinical research.
  • Post-Op Experts: We specialize in orthopedic rehab and understand how to progress BFR in a way that aligns with your surgical timeline.
  • One-on-One Care: Every session is customized to your goals and your surgeon’s recommendations.

Ready to Speed Up Your Recovery?

Contact us today to schedule your evaluation and see if Blood Flow Restriction Therapy is right for your rehab plan. Let’s get you back to doing what you love—stronger than ever.

Serving Cayce, Irmo, and the Greater Columbia, SC Area
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