Implementation Evaluation of Blood Flow Restriction in the Rehabilitative Setting

Authors

Corbit Franks, University of MississippiFollow
Madison Wellborn, University of MississippiFollow
Matthew A. Chatlaong, University of CincinnatiFollow
Daphney M. Carter, Kennesaw State UniversityFollow
William M. Miller, University of EvansvilleFollow
Matthew B. Jessee, University of MississippiFollow
Robert E. Davis, University of Arkansas, FayettevilleFollow

Abstract

Purpose: Blood flow restriction refers to a training/rehabilitation method consisting of an external pressure system applied to a limb to partially inhibit blood flow to the tissues. Though much research has been conducted concerning the use of blood flow restriction, there is limited research concerning why clinicians may or may not utilize it. Objective: The current qualitative study utilized the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to investigate why clinicians may or may not implement blood flow restriction in the clinical setting. Methods: A semi-structured interview addressing twelve implementation constructs within four domains (Intervention Characteristics, Outer Setting, Inner Setting, and Characteristics of Individuals) was conducted via teleconference. A total of 10 participants, including five athletic trainers, one occupational therapist, and four physical therapists, were interviewed. Transcripts from the interviews were evaluated and each construct was rated to determine whether they inhibited, facilitated, or were neutral to implementation. Results: The constructs inhibitive to implementation were adaptability, cost, and available resources, while the constructs facilitative of implementation were evidence strength and quality, access to knowledge and information, and knowledge and beliefs about the intervention. Constructs considered neutral to implementation were intervention source, relative advantage, complexity, patient needs and resources, culture, and self-efficacy. An additional two constructs (external policies and incentives, and networks and communications) were noted, but not rated due to lack of direct investigation. Conclusion: While several factors contribute to the implementation of blood flow restriction, clinicians appear to be most concerned with evidence strength and quality regarding the effectiveness of blood flow restriction across different populations, as well as the financial costs associated with blood flow restriction. While some clinicians appear to be very receptive to blood flow restriction, they may be unable to implement it due to financial restrictions.

Author Bio(s)

Corbit Franks, PhD, ATC, CES, is Assistant Professor and Clinical Education Coordinator of Athletic Training, Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA. He is also a licensed Athletic Trainer in the state of Mississippi. Dr. Franks is also a member of the Human Movement and High Performance Laboratory at The University of Mississippi.

Madison P. Wellborn, BS, is a former Student Research Assistant in the Applied Human Health and Physical Function Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA.

Robert E. Davis, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation, College of Education and Health Professions, and Director of the Substance Use and Mental Health Laboratory, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA.

Matthew A. Chatlaong, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Teachers College, Department of Human Services, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA.

Daphney M. Stanford, PhD, is Assistant Professor of Exercise Science and Sport Management, Department of Exercise Science and Sport Management, Wellstar College of Health and Human Services, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA.

William M. Miller, MS, is Assistant Professor of Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Evansville, Evansville, IN, USA.

Matthew B. Jessee, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Department of Health, Exercise Science, and Recreation Management, School of Applied Sciences, University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS, USA. He is also the director of the Applied Human Health and Physical Function Laboratory.

Recommended Citation

Franks C, Wellborn M, Chatlaong MA, Carter DM, Miller WM, Jessee MB, et al. Implementation Evaluation of Blood Flow Restriction in the Rehabilitative Setting. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Oct 15;23(4), Article 18.