Background/Significance: Blood flow restriction (BFR) involves the application of a device to
alter blood flow to an extremity. Several types of devices can facilitate blood flow restriction,
and safe application can limit adverse effects. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to explore
how individuals in the United States of America applied BFR/KAATSU devices and
administered BFR/KAATSU training. In addition, the study sought to examine safety related to
BFR/KAATSU training. Methods: The study was completed using survey research. Subjects
were recruited through Facebook, email, and word of mouth. The survey was developed, piloted,
and finally deployed March 22, 2021-April 21, 2021. Results: In total, 148 consented to the
research; 108 completed the survey, and of those 108, 70 indicated current use of BFR/KAATSU
equipment. Professions represented included athletic training, personal training, physical therapy,
and strength and conditioning. The most common devices used were inflatable devices (n=43,
61.4%). Education completed prior to device administration was formal (n= 39, 55.7%) and/or
self-directed (n=37, 52.9%). Barriers were faced by 29 (41.4%) when trying to enact training.
Techniques and parameters varied during application. Screening processes were used (n=50,
71.4%) prior to training. The devices were used to determine restrictive pressure (n=31, 44.3%),
and a supine position was used most when determining initial restrictive pressure (n=33, 47.1%).
For subsequent restrictive pressure measurements, respondents repeated the same method used
initially (n=38, 54.3%). Workload was often defined as the length of time under tension/load
(n=22, 31.4%) and exercise was directly supervised (n=52, 74.3%). Adverse effects including
bruising, lightheadedness, and cramping were seen (n=15, 21.4%). The devices have been
applied on those with pathology (n=16, 22.9%). Conclusions: Those using blood flow
restriction/KAATSU training came from a variety of professions and used a variety of devices for BFR/KAATSU training. Individuals applied devices using a variety of parameters on
populations for which efficacy has and has not been well defined.