What is Blood Flow Restriction Training?

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The latest in physical therapy in Wichita, KS isn’t about working harder or pushing yourself to the max. It’s about smart movements done with strategic placement of an assistive device, done under the watchful eye of a licensed physical therapist. Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) is a really innovative physical therapy technique that we have in our toolkit to enhance muscle strength and growth, using lower intensity workouts. By applying a restrictive device in a relevant place, blood flow is safely restricted during the exercise session. There’s a lot more to know about this technique, but this is the basic principle.

The Method

The basic principle behind BFRT is as straightforward as nature itself. It involves restricting blood strategically, using specialized bands or cuffs, applied to the arm or leg that’s being worked on. The general idea isn’t dissimilar to the way a body of water might be diverted in order to irrigate a field. As a result, blood accumulates in the muscle area, which increases the accumulation of metabolic by-products like lactic acid, enhancing muscle growth and strength gains.

Who Benefits

BFRT is highly beneficial for professional athletes, military personnel or those with limitations on high-load training. It’s also great for rehabilitation, helping patients regain muscle mass and strength more quickly than solely with traditional low-load exercises.

Safety and Effectiveness

Our physical therapists at Physical Therapy By Phoenix are trained to use BFRT responsibly and effectively. We assess the appropriate level of restriction and monitor the patient’s response throughout the session to maximize the benefits while minimizing risks.

BFRT is a remarkable advancement in the field of physical therapy and fitness, offering an effective alternative for muscle strengthening. If you’re interested inBlood Flow Restriction Training in Wichita, KS, get in touch today to see if it’s a suitable option for your fitness or rehabilitation goals.

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Circulation and Mobility: What You Should Know

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When people think about their circulation, they might think about any number of things. For some people, it might be blood clots. For others, it might be their constantly cold hands and feet. No matter what springs to your mind, it’s important to consider circulation from a mobility standpoint, particularly if you’re interested in improving your overall health and well-being.

The Basics of Circulation 

Circulation refers to how blood moves in your body, whether that blood comes from the lungs or from the heart. In essence, the lungs oxygenate the blood, and the blood is in charge of moving it to the rest of the body. The worse your circulation, the more likely you are to experience anything from cramps to organ damage. If you want to improve your circulation, you may need to exercise more, change your diet, or see a professional.

Blood Flow Restriction Training in Wichita 

In addition to the basics of circulation, there are ways to manipulate your blood flow to improve your muscle strength. For instance,blood flow restriction training in Wichita will stem blood flow to a muscle or a muscle group, which mirrors the effects of high-intensity training. This can strengthen the muscle without risk of injury, which can improve mobility. It can even stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.

If you’re interested in seeing a physical therapist in Wichita, KS, who can tell you more about how to improve your circulation, Physical Therapy by Phoenix is here to help. With five locations, including one in Hutchinson, our staff can help you target the problem so you can find a solution. Whether you’re interested in a few stretches or in how blood flow restriction training can help you increase your endurance, we’re here to answer your questions.

3 Easy Stretches to Improve Blood Flow

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Proper blood circulation is important for maintaining optimal health. However, as many of us sit for long periods of the day, getting adequate blood flow can be challenging. Luckily, a few simple daily stretches can help.

Keep reading to learn about three easy stretches to promote better blood circulation.

Downward Dog

Known as a popular yoga pose, downward dog is the perfect stretch for loosening the body and encouraging blood flow. Unlike other stretches, this pose targets several different areas of the body.

To give this a try, hop on an exercise mat and put your legs about shoulder-width apart. Then, bend your legs slightly, fold your body over, and place your hands on the floor. Walk your hands forward until you can straighten your legs. Your body should be in a V-shape. With your palms flat on the mat, hold this position for about 30 seconds.

Want to learn stretches from professionals? If so, contact Physical Therapy By Phoenix today! We offer exceptional physical therapy in Wichita, KS.

Wall Calf Stretch

This stretch starts in a standing position facing a wall, about two feet away. While keeping your right heel on the ground, place your right toe on the base of the wall. Next, lean towards the wall and bend your right knee until you feel a stretch in your right leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then repeat the same steps for the other leg.

Runner’s Lunge

Runner’s lunge is great for your groin, hips, and legs. To begin, stand up straight and step forward with one leg. Bend the knee in the forward leg while keeping your back leg straight. Next, place your hands on the floor until you feel a stretch. Make sure to repeat with your other side.

To learn even more stretches and circulation-promoting exercises, reach out to Physical Therapy By Phoenix today! You can trust our experienced physical therapist in Wichita, KS.