Blood Flow Restriction Training for Tendinopathy: A Clinical Review (mdpi.com)

• BFR enables low-load exercise to achieve benefits similar to high-load training, useful when pain limits loading.
• Typical protocol: 4 sets of 30-15-15-15 reps at 20-30% 1RM with 40-80% arterial occlusion pressure.
• Contraindications include vascular disease, high blood pressure, and pregnancy; careful patient selection is critical.

"This review synthesizes current evidence on blood flow restriction (BFR) training as a modality for tendinopathy rehabilitation. BFR involves partial arterial occlusion during low-load resistance exercise, which can stimulate muscle hypertrophy and strength gains. The article discusses mechanisms, protocols (e.g., occlusion pressure, sets, reps), and clinical applications for common tendinopathies (Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff). Precautions and contraindications are addressed, including patient selection and safety. The review emphasizes that BFR may be particularly useful when high-load training is not tolerated due to pain. It provides practical guidance for clinicians in integrating BFR into a comprehensive load management program."