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Blood Flow Restriction

Introduction

Blood Flow Restriction

A rehab programme will often focus on addressing different functional limitations associated with injury, health conditions, or simply aging. Increasing strength and muscle size is one of the most common features found on any programme. Strengthening muscles is typically achieved by a process called mechanical overload; meaning the target muscle is exposed to progressively more stress over time to ensure positive adaptations are made and we get stronger. This is commonly done by increasing the amount of load (eg, weight or resistance) that a muscle must overcome. However, this can prove to be problematic in a select group of individuals that cannot tolerate high loads due to a variety of reasons; such as: injured athletes, post-operative patients and elderly/deconditioned people.

Blood flow restriction is a training technique that can overcome this obstacle by using low load training to achieve large gains in muscle strength and size. It involves the use of a pneumatic cuff or band to reduce blood flow to targeted muscles during simple exercises. It achieves this by increasing growth hormone and lactate which regulate muscle growth, increasing vascularisation (more blood vessels) within the targeted tissue and increasing fast-twitch muscle fibre activation.

If the traditional method of increasing muscle strength of high load training is not suitable for you, blood flow restriction training can help you achieve your strength goals.

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Client Testimonials

SJ's wealth of experience and genuine passion for his job is his biggest asset, coupled with his ability to forge a relationship with a client on a professional and a personal level. He found a solution to my long-term lower back problems, not only by treating the symptoms but finding the root cause of the issue. It allowed me to continue my career as a professional rugby player with the Newcastle Falcons and I will always be grateful that our paths crossed.


Carlo Del Fava

BBC Sport, Former Italian International

After becoming injured earlier in the year I came to Activate Physio for help. SJ quickly isolated the issues and provided a programme of exercises to correct imbalances that had caused the problems. This enabled me to resume training quicker than expected with stronger and more efficient form. I would highly recommend Activate Physiotherapy to anyone in need of professional sports treatment.


Lucas Longman

Heaton Harriers

Having both coached Andy as an athlete & then worked alongside him as a colleague, I can't recommend his services and knowledge enough! He is a true professional and gentlemen to work with and always makes sure his service is of the highest standard. Having a team of international and Olympic athletes to cater for, I only use the best in the business and that is what you get with Andy!


John Trembley

USA Olympic Gold Medalist Coach

As an international and Olympic athlete I set my expectations very high when working with coaching and medical staff. I thoroughly recommend Andy Thirlwell to anyone looking to gain and edge in their sporting performance!


Barry Murphy

2012 Olympian, European Silver Medalist

I highly recommend Andy Thirlwell. His knowledge & expertise are world class. Working with Andy will take your sporting performance to the next level along with improving your over all health!


Ryk Neethling

2004 Olympic Gold Medalist & World Record Holder

SJ is a great Physio. I've known him for years, and can highly recommend him. Obviously passionate about his profession, he is hard working, conscientious, encouraging, and positive. If you want first-class treatment with a smile, SJ is your man.


Euan Murray

Former Scotland International