Understanding BFR: The Importance of Full Venous Occlusion
- Chett Paulsen
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 11

Clearing Up Misconceptions in BFR Education
Yesterday, a clinician reached out after taking a course from another BFR vendor. During the course, the instructor claimed that “BFR requires between 40% and 60% of Limb Occlusion Pressure (LOP).”
The clinician was puzzled. He wanted to understand why I emphasize that BFR requires FULL VENOUS OCCLUSION and requested studies to back up my claim.
I had a multi-part response to clarify this important topic:
Inaccurate Information: The instructor didn’t know the correct information. He should learn more before teaching others.
Terminology Confusion: The instructor mixed up “venous” (referring to veins) with “vascular” (which includes the entire circulatory system). This misunderstanding can lead to significant errors in practice.
Cuff Pressure Misrepresentation: The instructor incorrectly presented specific vendors’ practices. Setting cuff pressure as a percentage of LOP cannot be considered a universal requirement.
The Importance of Full Venous Occlusion
I shared multiple studies that confirm the necessity of full venous occlusion. This is a crucial aspect of blood flow restriction (BFR) training, and it’s a topic I’ll explore further in a future post.
Common Misconceptions in the Field
What stood out to me was the realization that many authors in the field seem confused. It's evident that misconceptions about BFR education are widespread.
Here’s a quick tip to remember: Venous refers specifically to veins, while vascular encompasses veins, arteries, and capillaries. And just for fun—remember that the other “Venus” is a planet that is hot enough to melt lead! 🌋🔥
Addressing Misunderstandings
Have you encountered similar misconceptions in BFR education? It's important to share these experiences. Misunderstandings can lead to improper training, which affects outcomes for patients and clients alike.
Furthermore, misinformation can spread quickly in the realms of health and fitness. This is why it’s essential to ensure that educators are well-informed. Discussing and dissecting these topics openly can help elevate the standards of BFR education.
Accessing Reliable Resources
If you’re looking for accurate articles and case studies, I encourage you to explore reliable sources. Want links to those articles? Click on this link www.rockcuff.com/osx. It’s vital to base your knowledge on sound research rather than hearsay.
Conclusion
Understanding the fundamentals of BFR training, such as the necessity of full venous occlusion, is critical for anyone involved in this field. As the industry continues to grow, let’s commit to sharing accurate information.
By doing so, we can enhance our practice, improve outcomes, and ultimately ensure that our clients receive the best possible care. Continuous education and open dialogue will be keys to achieving this goal.
Let’s remember: quality education leads to quality practice. Stay informed and help dispel the myths surrounding BFR training!
If you have any questions or experiences to share, feel free to comment below. Your insights could help others in their learning journey! 👇
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