LL-BFR (Low-Load Blood Flow Restriction) training is gaining popularity in musculoskeletal rehabilitation after injury as it augments low-load rehabilitation training with blood flow restriction. This combined approach can lead to greater responses in muscular strength compared to low-load training alone. LL-BFR can be used progressively during the rehabilitation process to facilitate the return to high-load activities.

Learning Points:

• LL-BFR training is becoming popular in musculoskeletal rehabilitation after injury.
• It combines low-load training with blood flow restriction for enhanced muscular strength.
• LL-BFR is particularly important early in the recovery process to prevent muscular atrophy after surgery.
• Serious adverse events like rhabdomyolysis are very rare with LL-BFR, regardless of the duration of therapy.
• The application of occlusive pressures in BFR training should be individualized for effective and safe use.
• Lower pressures that are well-tolerated may minimize pain and reduce the risk of potential adverse effects while still promoting beneficial musculoskeletal adaptations.

Reference #1: Hughes L, Paton B, Rosenblatt B, Gissane C, Patterson SD. Blood flow restriction training in clinical musculoskeletal rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2017 Jul;51(13):1003-1011.

Reference #2: Loenneke JP, Kim D, Fahs CA, et al. Effects of exercise with and without different degrees of blood flow restriction on torque and muscle activation. Muscle Nerve 2015; 51:713-721.