Blood flow restriction system with wireless monitoring and control

Abstract

A BFRT cuff, a motor / pump unit, and a method of exercising using the cuff, the method including providing a BFRT cuff and a motor / pump unit, placing the BFRT cuff on a user's limb, connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit, selecting a pressure value or percentage of limb occlusion pressure (LOP), causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved, stopping the flow of air to the BFRT cuff, and reducing the pressure in the BFRT cuff, and exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is at the selected pressure or selected percentage of LOP.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 960,957, filed January 14, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 773,102, filed January 27, 2020, which also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 797,689, filed January 28, 2019, and both U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 797,689 and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 773,102 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates to blood flow restriction systems, particularly blood flow restriction systems that can be wirelessly monitored and / or controlled, more particularly blood flow restriction systems that can be wirelessly monitored and / or controlled to a specific percentage of limb occlusion pressure (LOP), and even more particularly blood flow restriction systems that can be wirelessly monitored and / or controlled to measure the LOP of a specific limb of a user and set an inflatable belt system to a specific percentage of the LOP set by the user. [Background technology]

[0004] Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) has become a popular tool for improving muscle strength, size, and functional oxygen-using ability in a shorter time with less stress on the body than typical training. Practitioners have begun using BFRT in the treatment and recovery from musculoskeletal injuries or disorders. Trainers and coaches are using BFRT as an adjunct to regular training regimens or as a tool to aid recovery. BFRT is a brief, intermittent occlusion or restriction of arterial and venous blood flow, performed by applying a tourniquet to the arm or leg. BFRT has been shown to increase skeletal muscle adaptation during low-intensity endurance exercise or low-resistance weight training, as well as systemic changes and cardiovascular benefits during rest. BFRT has been found to be safe when applied with pressures related to cuff width and individual limb circumference obtained from measuring limb occlusion pressure via Doppler.

[0005] BFRT is performed by wrapping a tourniquet around the top of a person's upper or lower limb. The wrapping restricts blood flow from the veins of the working muscle to the heart and restricts blood flow from the arteries to the limb. The restriction results in physiological changes similar to those associated with high-intensity exercise. The result is an increase in muscle size and strength and an increase in cardiovascular function at significantly lower intensities than normally required for adaptation.

[0006] Smart Cuff, described in Patent Documents 1-22 and provided by Smart Tools Plus, LLC (https: / / www.smarttoolsplus.com / ) TM As with other devices, various types of BFRT cuffs have been developed, all of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,149,618 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 7,413,527 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 7,455,630 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 8,021,283 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 8,182,403 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 8,273,114 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 8,328,693 [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent No. 8,366,740 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 8,425,426 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent No. 8,992,397 [Patent Document 11] U.S. Patent No. 9,301,701 [Patent Document 12] U.S. Patent No. 10,245,458 [Patent Document 13] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0124912 [Patent Document 14] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0150560 [Patent Document 15] US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0193491 [Patent Document 16] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112504 [Patent Document 17] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0224357 [Patent Document 18] US Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0325825 [Patent Document 19] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0290005 [Patent Document 20] International Publication No. 2016 / 087123 [Patent Document 21] International Publication No. 2017 / 149690 [Patent Document 22] International Publication No. 2019 / 068147 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] While these prior art BFRT cuffs can be successfully used for BFRT, they typically require manual inflation / deflation, the use of a manual pressure gauge to monitor the cuff pressure, and inconvenient adjustment of the cuff pressure during training. As such, there remains a need for continually improving BFRT cuffs for ease of use during BFRT. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] BFRT systems according to the present disclosure are designed and configured to address the ongoing needs of individuals who use BFRT. The BFRT systems of the present disclosure may include and / or be used in conjunction with one or more of the following features, which may include:

[0010] A BFRT system that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture, and / or

[0011] A BFRT system that is comfortable for users to use, and / or

[0012] A user-friendly BFRT system, and / or

[0013] A BFRT system that is easy for the user to apply and remove, and / or

[0014] A BFRT system that is compact, lightweight, and easy to use, transport, and store; and / or

[0015] A BFRT system that can be used with a wide range of user body types, and / or

[0016] Washable BFRT systems, and / or

[0017] Durable BFRT systems, and / or

[0018] a BFRT system that, when inflated, includes a contour to the body; and / or

[0019] a BFRT system including one or more air chambers; and / or

[0020] a BFRT system that is at least 11 inches in length (e.g., 11-30 inches); and / or

[0021] BFRT systems with urethane-coated air bladders, and / or

[0022] a BFRT system including a motor / pump unit for inflating / deflating one or more air chambers of the BFRT system; and / or

[0023] A BFRT system that includes a motor / pump unit that inflates / deflates one or more air chambers during use of the BFRT system; and / or

[0024] A BFRT system including a motor / pump unit that is separable from / connectable to the BFRT cuff and that can remain connected to or be removed from the BFRT cuff before, during, and / or after use of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0025] BFRT systems that include battery-powered motor / pump units, and / or

[0026] a BFRT system that includes a battery-powered motor / pump unit in which the battery is rechargeable; and / or

[0027] a) whether the pump is on / off, and / or b) battery status, and / or c) pressure level in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff, and / or d) time / date, and / or e) whether the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff is below limb occlusion pressure, and / or f) error notification / status, and / or g) security status (e.g., locked or not), and / or h) ambient temperature, and / or i) timer / clock information, and / or j) alarm status / notification, and / or k) usage time, and / or l) the pressure mode and / or operating mode and / or the selected training session, and / or m) whether complete occlusion was achieved, and / or n) whether the maximum training time occurred, and / or o) the status of wireless connectivity to a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and / or p) a preset value for %LOP, and / or q) a BFRT system including a motor / pump unit with one or more displays relating to the preset % value for %LOP, and / or

[0028] A BFRT system including a motor / pump unit that can be controlled manually on the motor / pump unit itself and / or that can be controlled wired and / or wirelessly by a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device; and / or

[0029] A BFRT system including a motor / pump unit in which the air pressure in one or more air chambers can be controlled manually on the motor / pump unit itself and / or wired and / or wirelessly by a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device using a computer program or mobile app; and / or

[0030] A BFRT system including a motor / pump unit that can automatically adjust the air pressure in one or more air chambers in response to pressure changes during use of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0031] A BFRT system including a motor / pump unit that can remain on the BFRT cuff during exercise or can be removed from the BFRT cuff before, during, or after the user's exercise; and / or

[0032] A BFRT system including a pressure sensor and one or more processors that: a) facilitates controlling / maintaining / adjusting the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff; and / or b) provides pressure information on the housing of the motor / pump unit itself or elsewhere in the BFRT cuff; and / or c) provides pressure information via wired and / or wireless means to a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and displays such information using a computer program or mobile app; and / or

[0033] a BFRT system that maintains pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff while the BFRT cuff is in use by a user; and / or

[0034] BFRT systems that may be operated manually or automatically; and / or

[0035] a BFRT system that allows for manual entry of a predetermined limb occlusion pressure and uses such information to control / maintain / adjust the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0036] A BFRT system that receives information via wired and / or wireless means regarding the automatic calculation of a predetermined limb occlusion pressure by a computer program running on a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and uses such information to control / maintain / adjust the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff.

[0037] a BFRT system including a sensor for automatically shutting off the pump and / or releasing pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff after detecting that the occlusion pressure in one or more air chambers has been maintained for a predetermined period of time (e.g., up to 30 seconds, up to 1 minute, up to 4 minutes, up to 5 minutes, 0.001 seconds to 8 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween], etc.); and / or

[0038] a BFRT system including a sensor to automatically shut off the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff after a predetermined period of time (e.g., 20 minutes, 5 seconds to 30 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween], etc.); and / or

[0039] a BFRT system including a sensor to automatically shut off the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff after a predetermined period of BFRT cuff non-use (e.g., 10 minutes, 5 seconds to 30 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween], etc.); and / or

[0040] a BFRT system that includes a GPS sensor or other type of location sensor; and / or

[0041] a BFRT system including one or more motion sensors; and / or

[0042] a BFRT system including a gyro sensor, and / or

[0043] a BFRT system including one or more pressure modes (e.g., a flow restriction mode, an ischemic preconditioning mode, a manual mode, an automatic mode, etc.); and / or

[0044] a BFRT system that receives information, via wired and / or wireless means, that is used to control the operation of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0045] a BFRT system that receives, via wired and / or wireless means, information used to select an operating mode for the BFRT system (e.g., ischemic preconditioning ("IPC"), manual mode, automatic mode, etc.); and / or

[0046] BFRT systems that include a detachable motor / pump unit, and / or

[0047] a BFRT system that includes a pressure port that facilitates pressure maintenance of one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff once the motor / pump unit is removed from the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0048] a BFRT system including one or more pressure sensors that control one or more valves for one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff to automatically reduce the pressure to a set or predetermined pressure for one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0049] a BFRT system including a control system that automatically adjusts the pressure of the BFRT cuff while the BFRT cuff is in use by the user; and / or

[0050] a BFRT system including a control system that automatically adjusts the pressure of the BFRT cuff to a set pressure or within a specific pressure range of a set %LOP while the BFRT cuff is in use by the user; and / or

[0051] a BFRT system including a control system that partially or completely releases pressure in the BFRT cuff after the user completes a rep or exercise routine and then re-inflates the BFRT cuff when the user begins the next rep or exercise; and / or

[0052] a BFRT system including a control system that partially or completely depressurizes the BFRT cuff either immediately after the BFRT cuff detects that the user has stopped using the BFRT cuff or after some time has passed since the BFRT cuff detected that the user has stopped using the BFRT cuff, and optionally re-inflates the BFRT cuff when the BFRT cuff detects that the user is using the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0053] a BFRT system including one or more pressure sensors that control one or more valves for one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff to automatically reduce the pressure to a set or predetermined pressure for one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff; and / or

[0054] A computer program or mobile app running on a computer and / or server and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device that is used to select BFRT training sessions, keep track of BFRT training sessions, provide suggested training tips for BFRT, deliver suggested BFRT sessions, etc.; and / or

[0055] In connection with your use of the BFRT System, it is a computer program or mobile app running on a computer and / or server and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device that uses passwords and / or other security controls to prevent unauthorized use of the BFRT System and / or access to your personal information.

[0056] In other and / or alternative non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure, the pressure sensor may include: a) a housing; and / or b) a motor; and / or c) a pump; and / or d) one or more displays (e.g., LED screens, OLED screens, etc.) that display the measured pressure and / or display other information; and / or e) and / or f) wireless electronics for sending / receiving wireless signals between the motor / pump unit and a computer and / or server and / or data hub and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and / or g) one or more pressure gauges and / or sensors used to measure gas pressure in the inflatable air system, and / or h) an optional power source for powering one or more components of the motor / pump unit (e.g., motor, pump, pressure sensor / gauge, electronics, display, etc.), and / or i) optional one or more power ports for charging the power source, and / or j) optional connection arrangement for permanently or removably connecting the motor / pump unit to an outer cover, and / or k) fluidly connecting the motor / pump unit to an outer cover. and / or l) an optional GPS system; and / or m) optional circuit boards and other electronics; and / or n) optional software; and / or o) one or more optional data ports (e.g., micro USB ports, etc.) that allow for wired data transmission between the motor / pump unit and a computer and / or server and / or data hub and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device; and / or p) one or more optional buttons (e.g., power button, etc.); and / or q) one or more optional select or scroll buttons that allow for manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit and / or for selecting particular information displayed on the motor / pump unit.and / or q) optional one or more switches to allow manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit, and / or r) optional air hose port, and / or s) optional one or more lights and / or other indicators to indicate the mode and / or operation and / or status of the motor / pump unit, and / or t) optional memory, and / or u) optional gyroscope system to measure / determine / detect the movement and / or direction of movement of the BFRT cuff while the user is using the BFRT cuff, and / or v) one or more motion / motion sensors to measure / determine / detect the movement and / or direction of movement of the BFRT cuff while the user is using the BFRT cuff.

[0057] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the motor / pump unit can be sized and weighed to be easily handled by a user. Typically, the volume of the motor / pump unit housing is less than 500 cubic inches, typically 0.5-500 cubic inches (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), more typically 1-50 cubic inches. Typically, the motor / pump unit, including the housing and optional air hose, weighs no more than 10 pounds, typically 0.05-10 pounds (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), more typically 0.2-3 pounds. Typically, the size and shape of the housing is such that an average adult user can hold and carry it over a grinding surface with one hand without the need for any additional auxiliary or support systems. In one specific non-limiting embodiment, the motor / pump unit has a volume of less than 30 cubic inches and weighs less than 1.5 pounds.

[0058] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a BFRT cuff is provided that includes one or more air bladders that can be inflated and deflated, and a detachable air pump configured to inflate and deflate the one or more air bladders of the BFRT cuff. The BFRT cuff is typically constructed of a flexible material (e.g., nylon, neoprene, Kevlar) to partially or completely house the one or more air bladders. TM The one or more air bladders may be formed of rubber or other materials that allow the air bladders to inflate and retain air until deflated. The length of the BFRT cuff is typically 20-70 cm (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) for arm use and typically 30-100 cm (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) for leg use, although other lengths may be used. The width of the BFRT cuff is at least 5 cm, typically about 5-14 cm (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), and more typically about 8-12 cm, although other widths may be used. The BFRT cuff includes one or more air connection arrangements for inflating / deflating the one or more air bladders. Typically, the one or more air connection arrangements are configured to removably connect to a pump or air tubing for inflating / deflating the one or more air bladders. In one non-limiting device, the one or more air connection arrangements are quick connect arrangements known in the art. BFRT cuffs typically include one or more valves to retain air and / or release air from one or more air bladders. In one non-limiting device, the air connection arrangement includes one or more valves.

[0059] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a motor / pump unit is provided for inflating / deflating one or more air bladders of a BFRT cuff. In one non-limiting embodiment, the housing of the motor / pump unit includes a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery can be charged wirelessly and / or via a charging cable. The housing optionally includes a charging port for the rechargeable battery. The motor / pump unit may include an air tube configured to connect one end to the housing of the motor / pump unit and the other end to an air connection arrangement of the BFRT cuff (e.g., removably connected, non-removably connected, etc.).

[0060] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the motor / pump unit includes a sensor that detects air pressure within one or more air bladders of the BFRT cuff. The motor / pump unit generally includes electronics (e.g., a processor, software code, logic circuitry, etc.) that facilitates pressure measurement and calculation.

[0061] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the housing of the motor / pump unit includes a display and one or more user interface buttons. The one or more buttons may include a) a power button, and / or b) one or more arrow or scroll up / down buttons, and / or c) a reset button. The display may be an LED display or the like, and may or may not be a touchscreen display. Information on the display may include, but is not limited to, a) battery power level, b) pressure reading, c) warning indication for too high pressure, d) warning indication for too low pressure, e) warning indication for pressure above or below a preset %LOP, f) warning indication for battery level too low, g) information about the BFRT, h) arm or leg selection, i) limb occlusion pressure (LOP), j) date and / or time, k) time the BFRT cuff was inflated, l) pressure reset, m) system reset, n) BFRT cuff deflation, o) BFRT cuff inflation, p) percent of LOP to LOP to which the BFRT cuff should be inflated, and q) predetermined range of operation relative to the preset %LOP.

[0062] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the motor / pump unit is configured to: 1) inflate the BFRT cuff until the LOP pressure is reached or until a predetermined maximum pressure (e.g., 400 mmHg, 100-500 mmHg [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween], etc.) is reached; 2) depressurize the BFRT cuff to a set percentage of LOP (%LOP) (e.g., a preset %LOP or a manually set %LOP); and 3) terminate operation of the air pump after the set %LOP is reached or the preset maximum pressure is reached.

[0063] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the BFRT system is configured to maintain the pressure (e.g., auto-adjusting pressure) in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff at a preselected pressure or within a set %LOP while the BFRT cuff is in use by a user. During use of the BFRT system, the BFRT system may maintain the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff at a preselected value or a preselected pressure range. For example, a user may preset the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff at a particular %LOP, and / or at a particular range of %LOP, and / or at a particular pressure, and / or at a particular pressure range. In one non-limiting arrangement, a user may preset, or the BFRT system may automatically create, a particular %LOP preset at which one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff should be inflated during use of the user's BFRT cuff; and if one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in one or more air chambers is above the preset %LOP, the BFRT system will release gas (e.g., air) from the one or more air chambers until the one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is currently at the preset %LOP; and if one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is below the preset %LOP, the BFRT system will admit gas (e.g., air) into the one or more air chambers until the one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is currently at the preset %LOP.In one non-limiting arrangement, a user may pre-set, or the BFRT system may automatically create, a preset range of %LOP (e.g., 5-99% LOP [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween]) within which one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff should be inflated during use of the user's BFRT cuff, or a preset range of a pre-selected %LOP (e.g., ±0.001% to ±10% [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween]) within which one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff should be inflated; and if one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in one or more chambers is above the preset range of %LOP, or above the preset range of the preset %LOP, the BFRT system may determine that the one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in one or more chambers is currently within the preset range of %LOP, or above the preset range of the preset %LOP. The BFRT system releases gas (e.g., air) from one or more air chambers until it detects that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is within a preset range of % LOP, and if the one or more pressure sensors detect that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is lower than the preset range of % LOP or the preset range of the preset % LOP, the BFRT system will admit gas (e.g., air) into the one or more air chambers until it detects that the pressure in the one or more air chambers is now within the preset range of % LOP or the preset range of the preset % LOP.

[0064] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, a BFRT system is configured to maintain pressure (e.g., auto-adjusting pressure) within one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff within a preselected pressure range or within a set % LOP while the user is using the BFRT cuff. For example, when the BFRT cuff is placed on the user's arm, the user may preset the pressure within one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff at a particular % LOP (e.g., arm-30% LOP, arm-50% LOP, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), and the BFRT system then maintains the pressure within one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff within a particular range that includes the preset % LOP (e.g., 20% LOP to 60% LOP, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween). In one specific example, a BFRT cuff is placed on the user's arm. While the user is using the BFRT cuff, the user configures the BFRT system to use 35% LOP for the BFRT cuff. The BFRT cuff then inflates to reach the LOP pressure and releases the BFRT cuff pressure until the BFRT cuff pressure reaches 35% LOP. When the user moves their arm containing the BFRT cuff, the BFRT cuff pressure increases or decreases during arm extension movements. When the arm is bent, the arm muscles create compression on the BFRT cuff, thereby causing an increase in BFRT cuff pressure. If the detected pressure exceeds the upper limit of the % LOP setting (e.g., 60% LOP), the BFRT system reduces the pressure in the BFRT cuff so that the pressure in the BFRT cuff falls below the upper limit of the % LOP setting. When the arm is extended, the arm muscles reduce compression on the BFRT cuff, thereby reducing the pressure in the BFRT cuff. If the detected pressure falls below the lower limit of the % LOP setting (e.g., 20% LOP), the BFRT system increases the pressure in the BFRT cuff so that the pressure in the BFRT cuff exceeds the lower limit of the % LOP setting. As will be appreciated, the % LOP selected for a particular arm exercise may be set manually by the user or automatically by the BFRT system. The upper % LOP and / or lower % LOP limits for a particular arm exercise may also be set manually by the user or automatically by the BFRT system.In another example, when a BFRT cuff is worn on a user's leg, the user may preset the pressure in one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff to a particular %LOP (e.g., leg-50%LOP, leg-80%LOP, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), and the BFRT system maintains the pressure in one or more chambers of the BFRT cuff within a particular range that includes the preset %LOP (e.g., 40%LOP to 90%LOP, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween). In one specific example, a BFRT cuff is worn on a user's leg. During use of the BFRT cuff, the user sets the BFRT system to use 60%LOP. The BFRT cuff then inflates to reach the LOP pressure and then releases pressure in the BFRT cuff until the BFRT cuff pressure reaches 60%LOP. When a user moves their leg, including the BFRT cuff, the pressure in the BFRT cuff increases or decreases during leg extension exercise. When the arm is bent, the leg muscles cause compression on the BFRT cuff, thereby causing an increase in BFRT cuff pressure. If the detected pressure exceeds the upper limit of the %LOP setting (e.g., 90%LOP), the BFRT system reduces the pressure in the BFRT cuff to below the upper limit of the %LOP setting. When the leg is extended, the leg muscles decrease compression on the BFRT cuff, thereby decreasing the pressure in the BFRT cuff. If the detected pressure falls below the lower limit of the %LOP setting (e.g., 40%LOP), the BFRT system increases the pressure in the BFRT cuff to above the lower limit of the %LOP setting. As will be appreciated, the %LOP selected for a particular leg exercise may be manually set by the user or automatically set by the BFRT system. The upper %LOP and / or lower %LOP limits for a particular leg exercise may also be set manually by the user or automatically by the BFRT system.

[0065] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the BFRT system is configured with an intermittent rule that partially or fully deflates one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff when it detects that 1) the user is not using the BFRT cuff, or 2) the set exercise and / or set number of repetitions (reps) have been completed. This "intermittent rule" feature ensures that the BFRT cuff is partially or fully deflated between set exercises or repetitions, or when the BFRT cuff is not being used. In one embodiment, the BFRT cuff is worn on the user's arm. The user manually selects an exercise routine or inputs a custom exercise routine. The BFRT cuff inflates to reach LOP pressure and then releases BFRT cuff pressure until the BFRT cuff pressure drops to a certain %LOP. If the user moves their arm containing the BFRT cuff, the BFRT cuff pressure increases or decreases during arm extension exercise. Such pressure increases and decreases are used by the BFRT system to 1) determine whether the BFRT cuff is in use and / or 2) determine the user's repetition count during an exercise routine. If the BFRT system determines that the BFRT cuff has not been used for a specified period of time (e.g., 2-120 seconds, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween, such as 4-10 seconds), the BFRT system may be designed to partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff until it detects resumption of use and / or until a new exercise routine is initiated by the user or automatically by the BFRT system. In one non-limiting example, if the BFRT cuff is worn on the arm and the BFRT system determines that the BFRT has not been used for a specified period of time, the BFRT system may be designed to deflate the BFRT cuff to 0% LOP to 19.9% ​​LOP (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween). In another non-limiting example, a BFRT system is designed to deflate the BFRT cuff to 0% LOP to 39.9% LOP (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) when the BFRT cuff is placed on the leg and the BFRT system determines that the BFRT cuff has not been used for a specified period of time.As will be appreciated, the deflated %LOP after which the BFRT system determines that the BFRT cuff is not in use after a certain time period may be manually set by the user or automatically set by the BFRT system. The time period the BFRT system uses to determine inactivity may also be manually set by the user or automatically set by the BFRT system. In another non-limiting example, if the BFRT system is designed to fully or partially deflate the BFRT cuff after 1) the user has completed a selected number of repetitions or 2) the BFRT system determines that the user has completed a selected exercise routine, the time period before the user can re-inflate the BFRT cuff for another exercise routine may be a manually selected or pre-programmed time period. Generally, such a time period is between 5 seconds and 4 minutes (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), typically between 30 seconds and 3 minutes, and more typically between 1 and 2 minutes.

[0066] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the BFRT system may include pre-programmed exercise routines for the arms and / or legs.

[0067] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the BFRT system may allow a user to customize and / or manually input exercise routines for the arms and / or legs.

[0068] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the BFRT cuff may include a urethane-coated air bladder. The urethane layer on the bladder reduces pinching of the inflated bladder against the skin, adding comfort to the user. The urethane layer may optionally be stuffed into the folds created by the inflated bladder.

[0069] In another and / or alternative non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, one non-limiting method of operating the motor / pump unit and BFRT cuff is as follows: a) removably place (e.g., using hook-and-loop or the like) the BFRT cuff on the user's limb (e.g., arm, leg, etc.); b) attach the pump or pump air hose / tube to the BFRT cuff if not already connected; c) turn on the motor / pump unit if it is not already on; d) optionally allow or cause the motor / pump unit to adjust to ambient pressure; e) optionally select the limb (arm, leg, etc.) on the motor / pump unit (e.g., by selecting a limb listed on a display on the motor / pump unit housing); f) select the %LOP (e.g., by turning on the motor / pump unit); Using the display and one or more selection keys on the BFRT unit housing, the user selects the desired %LOP (or a default %LOP may be selected by the user), which is typically 20%-80% and all values ​​and ranges of %LOP therebetween; g) activates the air pump to pressurize the BFRT cuff until the limb LOP is detected; h) causes the air pump and / or motor / pump unit to reduce pressure in the BFRT cuff until the selected %LOP is detected in the BFRT cuff; i) after the %LOP in the BFRT cuff is obtained, terminates operation of the air pump; j) optionally, disconnects the air pump or air hose / tube from the BFRT cuff. The %LOP in the BFRT cuff is obtained by first having the motor / pump unit pressurize the BFRT cuff until the limb LOP is detected, and then deflates or allows air to be deflated from the BFRT cuff until the %LOP is obtained. The air pump typically immediately stops inflating the BFRT cuff once limb LOP is detected and then deflates the BFRT cuff to a selected %LOP. For example, if LOP is detected at a pressure of 200 mmHg, 50% LOP is 100 mmHg and 75% LOP is 150 mmHg.After the user has finished using the BFRT cuff inflated to the selected %LOP, the user may a) manually partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff and then remove it from the limb, or b) have the motor / pump unit partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff and then remove it from the limb. If the motor / pump unit is not connected to the BFRT cuff, first connect the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff before having the motor / pump unit partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff.

[0070] One non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a BFRT cuff comprising: (a) a BFRT cuff formed of a flexible outer member; an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member; an air inlet in fluid communication with the air chamber; and a connection strap configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb, at least a portion of the air inlet being disposed on an outer surface of the BFRT cuff, the air inlet including an air valve, and the flexible outer member having a length of at least 20 cm and a width of at least 5 cm; and (b) a flexible outer member at least partially enclosed by the BFRT cuff. a motor / pump unit configured to inflate a BFRT cuff, the motor / pump unit including a housing and an air connection arrangement that fluidly connects the housing to the BFRT cuff via the air inlet such that air drawn from the motor / pump unit can flow therethrough to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff, the housing having a size of less than 400 cubic inches and a weight of less than 40 ounces, the housing being configured, at least in part, to: 1) a pump (e.g., an electric air pump); (c) placing the BFRT cuff on a user's limb; (d) connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit so that air can flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; (e) selecting a pressure value or percentage of LOP, wherein the pressure value is less than the LOP, and the percentage is 90% or less; and (f) causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff. (g) stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff after the LOP of the limb is achieved; (h) causing the motor / pump unit to begin depressurizing the BFRT cuff within 10 seconds after the LOP of the BFRT cuff is achieved and continue to depressurize the BFRT cuff until the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP is achieved in the BFRT cuff; and (i) optionally,(j) disconnecting the BFRT cuff from the motor / pump unit such that the motor / pump unit is no longer able to supply air to the BFRT cuff; and (j) exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is at the selected pressure or the selected percentage of the LOP.

[0071] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of exercising with a BFRT cuff, further comprising the steps of: (k) after a user has finished using the BFRT cuff on a limb at the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP, reconnecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit to allow air to flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; and (l) causing the motor / pump unit to deflate air from the BFRT cuff to reduce the pressure in the BFRT cuff to below the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP.

[0072] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of exercising using a blood flow restriction training (BFRT) cuff, further comprising the step of removing the BFRT cuff from the user's limb after the step of exercising the limb.

[0073] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of exercising with a blood flow restriction training (BFRT) cuff, wherein the housing of the motor / pump unit includes a circuit board, a processor, a display, a power button, and one or more selection or scroll buttons configured to allow manual operation and / or control of the motor / pump unit, and the display displays three or more types of information selected from the group consisting of: a) measured pressure, b) power or charge level of the power source, c) warning symbols when certain warning events occur, d) selected %LOP, e) selected pressure, f) instructional information regarding how to use the motor / pump unit and / or BFRT cuff, and g) arm or leg selection options for the BFRT cuff.

[0074] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of exercising with a BFRT cuff, further comprising the step of turning on or activating a motor / pump unit, wherein the motor / pump unit is configured to adjust to ambient pressure after turning on or activating the motor / pump unit.

[0075] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of exercising with a BFRT cuff, further comprising the step of selecting a limb on which the BFRT cuff will be placed.

[0076] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide a) a BFRT cuff comprising: 1) a flexible outer member; 2) an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 3) a connection arrangement configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb, the flexible outer member having a length of at least 20 cm and a width of at least 5 cm; b) a motor / pump unit configured to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff, the motor / pump unit comprising a housing and an air connection arrangement that fluidly connects the housing to the BFRT cuff so that air taken from the motor / pump unit can flow therethrough to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff, the housing having a size of less than 400 cubic inches and a weight of less than 4 pounds; (c) placing the BFRT cuff on a user's limb; (d) connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit so that air can flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; (e) selecting a pressure value or percentage of limb occlusion pressure (LOP), the pressure value being less than the LOP, the percentage being less than 90%; (f) inflating the BFRT cuff by causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved; (g) stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff after the LOP of the limb is achieved; and (h) stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff after the LOP of the limb is achieved.and (i) reducing the pressure in the BFRT cuff until the pressure is at the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP within 1 to 30 seconds; and (ii) exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is at the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP, wherein if during the exercise step the pressure in the air chamber drops below the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP, a motor / pump unit automatically activates the air pump to increase the pressure in the air chamber to the selected pressure value or the selected percentage of the LOP.

[0077] Another and / or alternative non-limiting object of the present disclosure is to provide: a) a BFRT cuff, the BFRT cuff formed of a flexible outer member, an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member, an air inlet in fluid communication with the air chamber, and a connection strap configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb, at least a portion of the air inlet being disposed on an exterior surface of the BFRT cuff, the air inlet including an air valve, and the flexible outer member having a length of at least 20 cm and a width of at least 5 cm; and b) a motor / pump unit configured to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff, the motor / pump unit including a housing and an air connection arrangement fluidly connecting the housing to the BFRT cuff via the air inlet such that air taken from the motor / pump unit can flow therethrough to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff, the housing having a size of less than 400 cubic inches. (c) placing the BFRT cuff on a user's limb; (d) connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit so as to allow air to flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; and (e) selecting a pressure value or percentage of limb occlusion pressure (LOP), the pressure value being less than the LOP, the percentage being less than 95% of the LOP (e.g., , 5-95% and all values ​​and ranges therebetween, e.g., 50-90%); (f) inflating the BFRT cuff by causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved; (g) after the LOP of the limb is achieved, stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff; and (h) after the LOP of the BFRT cuff is achieved, for a predetermined time (e.g., 0.001-2 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween], 0.(i) optionally, disconnecting the BFRT cuff from the motor / pump unit such that the motor / pump unit is no longer able to supply air to the BFRT cuff; (j) optionally, maintaining the motor / pump unit on the BFRT cuff during use, and optionally enabling the motor / pump unit to maintain / control (e.g., automatically adjust pressure) the pressure in the BFRT cuff; (k) exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is at the selected pressure or the selected percentage of the LOP; and (l) optionally, providing intermittent adjustment of pressure in the BFRT cuff.

[0078] Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the disclosure when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0079] [Figure 1] FIG. 1A shows two BFRT cuffs and a motor / pump unit for each BFRT cuff in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 shows two BFRT cuffs and a motor / pump unit for each BFRT cuff in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a plan view of a non-limiting display on the housing of the motor / pump unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a front view of a non-limiting housing of the motor / pump unit of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5]1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 is an example flow diagram of the operation of a motor / pump unit and a BFRT cuff according to one non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a side view of another BFRT cuff system according to the present disclosure, including a motor / pump unit connected to a portion of the BFRT cuff. [Figure 14] Figure 13 shows a front perspective view of the BFRT cuff system. [Figure 15] Figure 13 shows an enlarged front perspective view of the BFRT cuff system. [Figure 16] Figure 14 shows a posterior perspective view of the BFRT cuff system with the motor / pump unit detached from the BFRT cuff. [Figure 17] Figure 16 shows an upper perspective view of the BFRT cuff system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0080] A more complete understanding of the objects / devices, processes, and components disclosed herein may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, which are schematic diagrams merely for convenience and ease of illustrating the present disclosure, and are therefore not intended to illustrate the relative size and dimensions of the devices or their components and / or to define or limit the scope of exemplary embodiments.

[0081] In the following description, specific terms are used for the sake of clarity; however, these terms are intended only to refer to the particular structure of the embodiment selected for the illustrative example and are not intended to define or limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings and the following description, it should be understood that like numerals refer to components of similar function.

[0082] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0083] The term "comprising," as used in the specification and claims, may include the examples "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of." As used herein, "comprise(s)," "include(s)," "having," "has," "can," and "contain(s)," and variations thereof, are intended to be open-ended, transitional phrases, terms, or words that require the presence of the named components / steps and permit the presence of other components / steps. However, such statements should also be construed as describing mixtures or processes that "comprise" or "consist essentially of" the listed components / steps, permitting only the presence of the named components / steps plus unavoidable impurities that may result therefrom, and excluding other components / steps.

[0084] Numerical values ​​in the specification and claims of this application should be understood to include the same numerical values ​​when converted to the same number of significant figures and numerical values ​​that differ from values ​​determined by no more than experimental error of conventional measurement techniques of the type described in this application to determine the values.

[0085] All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the recited endpoints and are independently combinable (e.g., the range "from 2 inches to 10 inches" includes the endpoints 2 inches and 10 inches, and all intermediate values).

[0086] The terms "about" and "approximately" can be used to include all numerical values ​​that may vary without changing the basic function of the value. When used in a range, "about" and "approximately" also disclose the range defined by the absolute values ​​of the endpoints (e.g., "about 2 to about 4" also discloses the range "2 to 4"). In general, the terms "about" and "approximately" can refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number.

[0087] In accordance with the present disclosure, a BFRT system 20 is provided that includes a BFRT cuff 100 and a motor / pump unit 200 .

[0088] BFRT cuff 100 includes an inflatable air system formed of one or more layers of material. In one non-limiting example, the inflatable air system includes two layers of material combined together to create one or more air chambers that are inflated with air and / or other gases. In one non-limiting configuration, BFRT cuff 100 is a single-chamber inflatable cuff. In another non-limiting configuration, BFRT cuff 100 includes two or more air chambers. The configuration and shape of the one or more air chambers are non-limiting. The inflatable air system of BFRT cuff 100 is configured such that inflation of the inflatable air system causes compression at a targeted compression zone, which results in a restriction of blood flow in the user's venous system. The BFRT cuff 100 includes an outer cover 102 having a cavity (not shown) for receiving an inflatable air system to partially or completely isolate the inflatable air system from the user's skin and / or to provide protection for the inflatable air system and / or to provide structural strength to the BFRT cuff 100. The inflatable air system may optionally be secured (e.g., sewn connections, adhesive connections, fused connections, etc.) within the cavity to one or more interior surfaces of the outer cover 102. The outer cover 102 is typically made of a flexible, durable material (e.g., nylon, Kevlar TM In one non-limiting example, outer cover 102 is formed of a non-elastic or non-stretch material. Outer cover 102 is configured to a) facilitate the distribution of forces applied to the user's limb by the inflatable air system, and / or b) reduce pinching of the user's skin during inflation of the inflatable air system, and / or c) provide friction between BFRT cuff 100 and the user's skin to reduce or prevent rotation of BFRT cuff 100 on the user during use.

[0089] BFRT cuff 100 generally includes a connection arrangement that facilitates securing BFRT cuff 100 to a user's limb. As shown in FIG. 1, BFRT cuff 100 includes loop-and-loop-like material 110 on its exterior surface configured to releasably connect to hook-and-loop material on strap 120.

[0090] The BFRT cuff 100 includes one or more input ports 130 (e.g., air inlet, data / communications input port, power input port, etc.). The one or more input ports may be in fluid communication with the inflatable air system to allow fluid (e.g., air) to enter and exit the inflatable air system. The input ports 130 typically include a valve component (not shown). The location of the one or more input ports 130 on the BFRT is not limiting. The location of the one or more input ports 130 on the BFRT is not limiting. Typically, at least one input port 130 is configured to connect to a motor / pump unit 200 (e.g., a portable motor / pump, a non-portable motor / pump, a permanently connected motor / pump, a detachably connected motor / pump, etc.). The one or more input ports 130 optionally include a one-way valve (not shown) to prevent undesired deflation of the inflatable air system. The one or more input ports 130 may optionally be configured to allow manual deflation of the inflatable air system.

[0091] 1, 1A, 2, and 3, the BFRT cuff 100 includes a motor / pump unit 200 connected to the outer surface 112 of the outer cover 110. In particular, the outer cover 110 includes a first end 114 and a second end 116, and the motor / pump unit 200 is connected to a portion of the outer cover closest to the first end 114. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 120 may be located on any portion of the outer cover 110. Although not shown, the outer cover 110 is connected to an input port so that the motor / pump unit 120 can inflate and deflate the BFRT cuff 100.

[0092] The motor / pump unit 200 comprises, at least in part, a) a motor (not shown), and / or b) a pump (not shown), and / or c) an optional power supply (not shown), and / or d) one or more pressure sensors (not shown), and / or e) a circuit board and other electronics (not shown), and / or f) one or more processors (e.g., controllers, etc.), and / or g) one or more pressure gauges (not shown), and / or h) software (not shown), and / or i) one or more displays 230 (e.g., LED screens, OLED screens, etc.), and / or j) an optional power port (not shown), and / or k) an optional data port 220 (e.g., a micro USB port), and / or l) an optional GPS system (not shown), and / or m) optional wireless electronics for transmitting / receiving wireless signals (e.g., n) one or more buttons 240, 241 (e.g., a power button, a home button, a power off button, etc.), and / or o) one or more select or scroll buttons 250, 260 to allow manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit 200, and / or p) one or more switches (not shown) to allow manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit 220, and / or q) a connection arrangement 280 for permanently or removably connecting the motor / pump unit 220 to the outer cover 110, and / or r) an air hose barb 290, and / or s) a housing 210 including optional lights and / or other indicators (not shown) to indicate the mode and / or operation and / or status of the motor / pump unit 200. The shape and size of the housing 210 are non-limiting. The material used to form the housing 210 is typically a durable material (e.g., plastic, metal, composite, etc.) The motor / pump unit 200 is typically a portable motor / pump unit 200 that is easily accessible by a user.Generally, the volume of the housing 210 of the motor / pump unit 200 is 500 cubic inches or less, typically 0.5 to 500 cubic inches (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), more typically 1 to 50 cubic inches. Generally, the weight of the motor / pump unit 200, including the housing 210 and air hose 270, is 10 pounds or less, typically 0.05 to 10 pounds (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween), more typically 0.2 to 3 pounds.

[0093] 1, a first end of air hose 270 is connected to air hose barb 290 of housing 210. Air hose 270 may be permanently or removably connected to housing 210. A second end of air hose 280 includes a hose connector 280 configured to be removably connected to air inlet 130 of BFRT cuff 100. Typically, the type of connection between hose connector 280 and air inlet 130 is a quick-connect connection arrangement, although this is not required.

[0094] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the front of the housing 210 includes a power / data port 220. The type of connection is non-limiting. As can be appreciated, the power / data port 220 may be located in other areas of the housing 220. Optionally, the power / data port 220 may recharge an optional battery in the housing 210 and / or power the motor / pump unit 200. The power / data port 220 may optionally 1) provide software updates to the motor / pump unit 200 and / or allow repair / reset of the motor / pump unit 200, 2) obtain usage / diagnostic information from the motor / pump unit 200, and / or 3) download / upload user information and / or BFRT usage information.

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, two types of button and display configurations are illustrated. As can be appreciated, other types of button and display configurations may be used on the housing 210 of the motor / pump unit 200. As shown in FIG. 1, the top of the housing 210 includes a large display 230 that covers approximately 50-80% of the top surface of the housing 210 (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween). The display 230 may be an LED display or the like. Located below the display 230 are a power button 220 and two arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260. The power button turns the motor / pump unit 200 on and off. The power button 220 may optionally reset the motor / pump unit 200. Two arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260 may be used to select items displayed on the display 230 (e.g., select %LOP, select whether the BFRT cuff should be used on the leg or arm, select exercise duration, select whether the %LOP used on one limb should also be used on the other limb, deflate the BFRT cuff, inflate the BFRT cuff, reset the motor / pump unit 200, select the date, select the time, turn on the remove / reset warning on the display, run diagnostics on the motor / pump unit 200, etc.). (e.g., update the motor / pump unit 200 software / firmware, inflate the BFRT cuff to the LOP of the user's limb and then deflate the BFRT cuff to a selected or programmed %LOP, activate / deactivate wireless mode, wirelessly pair the motor / pump unit 200 with the BFRT cuff, select the operating mode of the motor / pump unit 200, unlock / lock the motor / pump unit 200 to the BFRT cuff, set the inflation pressure, set the automatic pressure maintenance mode, etc.) As can be appreciated, the arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260 may be used for other or additional functions.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 3, the top of the housing 210 includes a display 230, a power button 240, and two arrow or scroll buttons 250 and 260. However, the orientation of the display 230 and the two arrow or scroll buttons 250 and 260 on the top of the housing is different. The size of the display in FIG. 3 is smaller than that in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the display size covers approximately 12-40% (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) of the top surface of the housing 210. The power button 240 and the two arrow or scroll buttons 250 and 260 are located on the left side of the display 230, opposite the buttons on the display 230 shown in FIG. 1. The functions of the power button 240 and the two arrow or scroll buttons 250 and 260 shown in FIG. 3 may be the same as or different from the functions of the power button 240 and the two arrow or scroll buttons 250 and 260 described above with respect to FIG. 1.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 3, the display shows the measured pressure in mmHg and the battery power or charge level of the housing 210, and optionally displays a warning symbol if any warning events occur (e.g., battery power level too low, air pump failure, motor / pump unit 200 electronics / processor failure, maximum measured / detected pressure exceeded, etc.). As can be appreciated, the display 230 of FIGS. 1 and 3 may display other or additional data (e.g., selected %LOP, operational information for the motor / pump unit 200 and / or BFRT cuff 100, LOP pressure, pressure at the selected %LOP, operating status or step of the motor / pump unit 200 (e.g., inflating the BFRT cuff, obtaining limb LOP, deflating the BFRT cuff to the selected %LOP, fully deflating the BFRT cuff, etc.), manual selection of %LOP, selection of arm or leg for BFRT cuff inflation, selection of fully deflated BFRT cuff, time remaining to fully charge the battery, whether the air pump is ON or OFF, etc.).

[0098] Operation of the BFRT system The operation of the BFRT system 20 shown in Figures 1-3 will now be described.

[0099] Step 1—Turning on or energizing the motor / pump unit 200 (if not already on). Turning on or energizing the motor / pump unit 200 may be accomplished by pressing the power button 240 on the housing 210. If the motor / pump unit 200 was off or not energized, when the motor / pump unit 200 is turned on or energized, the motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to calibrate with ambient pressure. Generally, turning on or energizing the motor / pump unit 200 will turn on the display 230.

[0100] Step 2—Optionally, charge the battery within housing 210 of motor / pump unit 200 (if not already fully charged). Generally, the battery within housing 210 should be charged to at least 30-50% of a full charge (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) prior to operating motor / pump unit 200 to inflate BFRT cuff 100. Battery charge level 292 is optionally displayed on display 230 of housing 210. In one non-limiting example, the battery within housing 210 should be charged to at least 50-100% of a full charge (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) prior to operating motor / pump unit 200 to inflate BFRT cuff 100. Motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to cause a warning 294 to appear on display 230 of housing 210 if 1) the battery charge level is too low and / or 2) an occlusion is detected when not tested for, thereby causing an automatic valve protocol to be executed. As can be appreciated, motor / pump unit 200 may be configured for other or additional events to cause warning 294 to appear on display 230. Motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to prevent operation of the air pump if the battery charge level is too low.

[0101] Step 3—Optionally, select the limb (e.g., arm or leg) on ​​which the BFRT cuff 100 should be placed. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be programmed such that the display 230 on the housing 210 prompts the user to select the limb on which the BFRT cuff 100 should be placed during inflation of the BFRT cuff 100 using one or both of the two arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260, or by touching the display (if the display is a touchscreen display). This step and feature of the portable motor / pump unit 200 is optional.

[0102] Step 4—Placing the BFRT cuff 100 on the user's desired limb. The step of placing the BFRT cuff 100 on the user's desired limb can occur any time prior to the motor / pump unit 200 inflating the BFRT cuff 100. During the step of placing the BFRT cuff 100 on the user's desired limb, an appropriately sized BFRT cuff 100 is selected (various BFRT cuff sizes are generally available for arms and legs), and then the BFRT cuff 100 is snugly placed around the user's limb, and a connection strap (e.g., a hook-and-loop fastener strap, etc.) releasably secures the BFRT cuff 100 to the limb.

[0103] Step 5—Select %LOP. The motor / pump unit 200 may be configured to allow the user to select a desired %LOP to be used during limb exercise. The %LOP may be selected by the user using one or both of the two arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260, or by touching the display (if the display is a touchscreen display). The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to not allow a %LOP greater than 90% to be selected. In one non-limiting example, the motor / pump unit 200 only allows the user to select a %LOP from 20-85% and all values ​​and ranges therebetween. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally provide a suggested %LOP based on the user's own input for the limb to which the BFRT cuff 100 is connected. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally have pre-programmed maximum and / or minimum %LOP values ​​so that the user cannot arbitrarily select a %LOP greater than the pre-programmed maximum %LOP value and / or so that the user cannot arbitrarily select a %LOP less than the pre-programmed minimum %LOP value.

[0104] Step 6—Connect the motor / pump unit 200 to the BFRT cuff 100 prior to activating the pump of the motor / pump unit 200. The step of connecting the motor / pump unit 200 to the BFRT cuff 100 may occur at any time prior to the motor / pump unit 200 inflating the BFRT cuff 100. As shown in FIG. 1 , the motor / pump unit 200 may be attached to the BFRT cuff 100 by connecting the air tube 270 to the air inlet 130 of the BFRT cuff 100. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 200 may be connected to the BFRT cuff 100 by other or alternative arrangements.

[0105] Step 7—Activate the air pump of the motor / pump unit 200 to inflate the BFRT cuff 100 to the LOP of the limb to which the BFRT cuff 100 is attached. After the %LOP or selected pressure is selected by the user, the motor / pump unit 200 may be activated by the user using one or both of the two arrow or scroll buttons 250, 260, or by touching the display (if the display is a touchscreen display), or automatically. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to allow the air pump to continue pumping air into the BFRT cuff 100 until the BFRT cuff 100 reaches a preset maximum air pressure. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to stop operation of the air pump when the BFRT cuff 100 reaches a preset maximum air pressure, and the motor / pump unit 200 may then optionally be configured to partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff 100. Such a feature may be used to reduce or prevent damage to the BFRT cuff 100 and / or reduce or prevent harm to the user. The motor / pump unit 200 is configured to terminate air flow to the BFRT cuff 100 when LOP is detected in the limb. LOP may be measured using an oscillometric method by inflating the BFRT cuff 100 until a complete occlusion (not an arterial pulse) is sensed, and then an array average / mean pressure is taken. The motor / pump unit 200 may be configured to detect a complete occlusion as fast as half a millisecond, so that the motor / pump unit 200 can take the average pressure over the span of the complete occlusion. Thereafter, the motor / pump unit 200 is configured such that air can or should be removed from the BFRT cuff 100 until the BFRT cuff 100 reaches the selected %LOP.Generally, the motor / pump unit 200 is configured such that air can or should be removed from the BFRT cuff 100 within 10 seconds or less (e.g., 0.001 to 10 seconds, and all values ​​and ranges therebetween) of the motor / pump unit 200 detecting or sensing that the LOP has been achieved; typically, the motor / pump unit 200 is configured such that air can or should be removed from the BFRT cuff 100 within 5 seconds or less of the motor / pump unit 200 detecting or sensing that the LOP has been achieved; and more typically, the motor / pump unit 200 is configured such that air can or should be removed from the BFRT cuff 100 within 2 seconds or less of the motor / pump unit 200 detecting or sensing that the LOP has been achieved.

[0106] Air is removed from the BFRT cuff 100 by use of a valve in the motor / pump unit 200 that is actuated to allow air to be released from the BFRT cuff 100 to the motor / pump unit 200 via the air tube 270, and / or the air pump in the motor / pump unit 200 is configured to draw air from the BFRT cuff 100 via the air tube 270.

[0107] When the %LOP or selected pressure is achieved in the BFRT cuff 100, the air pump (if running) will cease operation and / or the air release valve of the motor / pump unit 200 will close to prevent further air from escaping from the BFRT cuff 100 after the %LOP or selected pressure is achieved in the BFRT cuff 100. The motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to provide a visual signal via the display 230 on the housing 210 and / or an audible sound to the user when the %LOP or selected pressure is achieved in the BFRT cuff 100.

[0108] Step 8—Optionally, after the %LOP is achieved in the BFRT cuff 100, remove the motor / pump unit 200 from the BFRT cuff 100. Removal of the motor / pump unit 200 from the BFRT cuff 100 may be accomplished by disconnecting the hose connector 280 of the air hose 270 from the input port 130 of the BFRT cuff 100. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 200 may be removed from the BFRT cuff 100 in other ways. Removing the motor / pump unit 200 from the BFRT cuff 100 means that the motor / pump unit 200 will not regulate the pressure in the BFRT cuff 100 while the user moves the limb while the BFRT cuff 100 is connected and partially inflated on the limb.

[0109] Step 9—Optionally, automatically adjust the pressure in the BFRT cuff 100 while the user is using the BFRT cuff 100. If automatic adjustment is used, the motor / pump unit 200 is connected to the BFRT cuff 100 while the user is using the BFRT cuff 100. Automatic adjustment of the pressure in the BFRT cuff 100 is used to ensure that the proper inflation pressure of the BFRT cuff 100 is maintained while the BFRT cuff 100 is in use.

[0110] Step 10—Deflate the BFRT cuff 100. Partial or full deflation of the BFRT cuff 100 can be accomplished by 1) opening the air release valve on the BFRT cuff 100, 2) reconnecting the motor / pump unit 200 to the BFRT cuff 100 (if not already connected—reconnection is not necessary if the motor / pump unit 200 remains on the BFRT cuff 100 while the BFRT cuff 100 is in use), and then causing the motor / pump unit 200 to remove air from the BFRT cuff 100 (e.g., activating the air pump to draw air from the BFRT cuff 100 and then out of the housing 210 via the air tube 270, opening the valve on the motor / pump unit 200 to allow air to flow from the BFRT cuff 100 via the air tube 270 and then out of the housing 210, and then through the air tube 270 and the open valve, etc.). The contraction step includes an optional intermittent adjustment feature of the BFRT system.

[0111] Step 11—Remove BFRT cuff 100 from user's limb. After the user has finished exercising the limb using BFRT cuff 100, the user may remove BFRT cuff 100 from the limb after BFRT cuff 100 has been partially or fully deflated.

[0112] If the user wishes to perform multiple limb exercises using different %LOPs, the above steps may be modified. For example, if after exercise the user wishes to continue exercising a limb using a different LOP, after step 9 the user would repeat one or more of steps 1-3, 5-10.

[0113] Motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to allow a user to select the same %LOP or pressure used on one limb for use on the other limb. For example, if a user selects a 50% %LOP (a pressure of 190 mmHg) using BFRT cuff 100 on the right arm, motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to allow the user to use the same BFRT cuff pressure when BFRT cuff 100 is connected to the left arm, without motor / pump unit 200 having to determine the LOP for the left arm. In such an arrangement, motor / pump unit 200 simply inflates the BFRT cuff 100 on the left arm to the same pressure used on the right arm. If such a configuration is available on motor / pump unit 200, such an option is typically displayed on display 230 of housing 210.

[0114] 4-12, flow diagrams of the operation of the motor / pump unit 200 and BFRT cuff 100 are shown in accordance with non-limiting aspects of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 illustrates that the motor / pump unit 200 can operate in either an automatic LOP mode or a manual pressure mode. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 200 can be configured to operate only in the automatic LOP mode or only in the manual pressure mode.

[0115] 4, an optional welcome screen is displayed on the display after the power button 240 is pressed on the housing of the motor / pump unit 200. Additionally, while the welcome screen is displayed on the display, the motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to perform ambient air pressure regulation with one or more pressure sensors on the housing 210 of the motor / pump unit 200.

[0116] After the optional welcome screen, an optional warning screen and / or usage screen may be displayed, and one or more buttons 250, 260 may optionally be required to be pressed or (if the display is a touchscreen display) the display screen 230 may be touched to indicate confirmation of the warning and / or usage screen.

[0117] After the optional warning screen and / or usage screen, if the motor / pump unit 200 has more than one mode, two or more modes of operation of the motor / pump unit 200 may be displayed so that the user can select the mode of operation using one or more buttons 250, 260 or by touching the display screen 230 (if the display is a touchscreen display). As shown in FIG. 4, the motor / pump unit 200 has four modes of operation (e.g., Auto LOP mode, Manual Pressure mode, IPC mode, and PEIC mode). FIG. 1 illustrates the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and the motor / pump unit 200 when the Ischemic Preconditioning (IPC) mode or the Post Exercise Ischemic Conditioning (PEIC) mode is selected by the user.

[0118] If the user selects the manual pressure mode, the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 follows the operation shown in Figures 5-7. If the motor / pump unit 200 has only one manual pressure mode, or if the motor / pump unit 200 does not have an automatic LOP mode and the IPC or PEIC mode is not selected, the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 may optionally be configured to follow the operation shown in Figures 5-7 without requiring the user to select another mode.

[0119] FIG. 5 shows that the user can select between muscle training or endurance training. However, if the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 do not have an automatic LOP mode, only the muscle training option is available to the user. If the muscle training option is selected, the user is optionally asked to select whether the BFRT cuff is attached to an arm or a leg. FIG. 6 shows the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the arm is selected, and FIG. 7 shows the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the leg is selected.

[0120] 8-12 show the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 in the automatic LOP mode, if any.

[0121] FIG. 8 illustrates that the user may optionally be asked to select a muscle training mode or an endurance training mode. After either mode is selected, the user is then optionally asked to select whether the BFRT cuff 100 will be attached to an arm or a leg. FIG. 9 illustrates the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the arm is selected in the muscle training mode, and FIG. 10 illustrates the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the leg is selected in the muscle training mode. FIG. 11 illustrates the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the arm is selected in the endurance training mode, and FIG. 12 illustrates the operation of the BFRT cuff 100 and motor / pump unit 200 when the leg is selected in the endurance training mode.

[0122] 13-17, an alternative non-limiting BFRT system 300 is shown, including a BFRT cuff 310 and a motor / pump unit 320.

[0123] The BFRT cuff 310 includes an inflatable air system formed of at least two layers of material combined together to create one or more air chambers that are inflated with air and / or other gases. The inflatable air system of the BFRT cuff 310 is configured so that inflation of the inflatable air system causes compression at a targeted compression zone, which results in a restriction of blood flow in the user's venous system. The BFRT cuff 310 includes an outer cover 312 having a cavity for containing the inflatable air system to separate the inflatable air system from the user's skin. The inflatable air system may optionally be secured within the cavity to one or more inner surfaces of the outer cover (e.g., by stitching, adhesive, fused connections, etc.). The outer cover 312 is typically made of a flexible, durable material (e.g., nylon, Kevlar TM In one non-limiting example, outer cover 312 is formed of a non-elastic or non-stretch material. Outer cover 312 is configured to a) facilitate the distribution of forces applied to the user's limb by the inflatable air system, and / or b) reduce pinching of the user's skin during inflation of the inflatable air system, and / or c) provide friction between BFRT cuff 100 and the user's skin to reduce or prevent rotation of BFRT cuff 310 on the user during use.

[0124] The BFRT cuff 310 includes one or more air inlets 318 in fluid communication with the inflatable air system to allow fluid (e.g., air) to enter and exit the motor / pump unit 320. The inlets 318 typically include a valve component. The location of the one or more inlets 318 on the BFRT cuff 310 is not limiting. Typically, at least one inlet 318 is positioned facing outward, toward the surface of the outer member cover 312. The one or more inlets 318 are configured to connect to the motor / pump unit 320. The one or more inlets 318 optionally include a one-way valve (not shown) to prevent undesired deflation of the inflatable air system. The one or more inlets 318 may optionally be configured to allow manual deflation of the inflatable air system.

[0125] As shown in FIGS. 13-17 , the BFRT cuff 310 includes a motor / pump unit 320 connected to the outer surface 313 of the outer cover 312. In particular, the outer cover 310 includes a first end 314 and a second end 316, and the motor / pump unit 320 is connected to a portion of the outer cover 312 closest to the first end 314. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 320 may be located on any portion of the outer cover 310. Although not shown, the outer cover 310 is connected to an input port 318 such that the motor / pump unit 320 can inflate and deflate an inflatable air system (not shown) located within a cavity (not shown) of the outer cover 310.

[0126] The motor / pump unit 320 includes a) a housing 322, and / or b) a motor (not shown), and / or c) a pump (not shown), and / or d) one or more displays 324 (e.g., LED screens, OLED screens, etc.) for displaying measured pressure and / or other information, and / or e) and / or f) optional wireless electronics (not shown) that may be used to send / receive wireless signals between the motor / pump unit and a computer and / or server and / or data hub and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and / or g) one or more pressure gauges and / or sensors (not shown) used to measure gas pressure in the inflatable air system, and / or h) an optional power source (not shown) that provides power to one or more components of the motor / pump unit (e.g., motor, pump, pressure sensor / gauge, electronics, display, etc.), and / or i) optional one or more power ports (not shown) for charging the power source, and / or j) a connector for connecting the motor / pump unit to the exterior cover 310, either permanently or , and / or k) optional one or more fluid connectors 330 for fluidly connecting the motor / pump unit 320 to the inflatable air system, and / or l) optional GPS system (not shown), and / or m) optional circuit boards and other electronics (not shown), and / or n) optional software (not shown), and / or o) optional one or more data ports (e.g., micro USB ports, etc.) (not shown) for enabling wired data transmission between the motor / pump unit 320 and a computer and / or server and / or data hub and / or cloud and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and / or p) optional one or more buttons (e.g., power button, etc.) (not shown), and / orr) optional one or more select or scroll buttons (not shown) to allow manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit and / or for selecting particular information displayed on the motor / pump unit, and / or s) optional one or more switches (not shown) to allow manual operation / control of the motor / pump unit, and / or r) optional air hose port (not shown), and / or t) optional one or more lights and / or other indicators (not shown) to indicate the mode and / or operation and / or status of the motor / pump unit, and / or u) optional memory (not shown). The shape, size, and weight of the housing 322 are not limiting. The material used to form the housing is generally a durable material (e.g., plastic, metal, composite, etc.). The size and weight of the motor / pump unit 320 may be the same as or similar to the motor / pump unit 200 described above.

[0127] As can be appreciated, motor / pump unit 320 can be partially or completely contained within BFRT cuff 310 and / or can be partially or completely contained within the inflatable air system of BFRT cuff 310. In such an arrangement, motor / pump unit 320 can be partially or completely hidden within BFRT cuff 310. In such an arrangement, outer surface 313 of outer cover 312 can optionally include one or more displays and / or buttons for displaying information regarding motor / pump unit 320 and / or for displaying information regarding the pressure of the inflatable air system and / or for manually controlling motor / pump unit 320. As can be appreciated, one or more displays and / or buttons can be used to display information and / or control motor / pump unit 320, as described above with respect to motor / pump unit 200. In such an arrangement, the housing 320 of FIG. 13 simply shows the display 326 and optional buttons on the outer surface 313 of the outer member cover 312, and some or all of the other components of the motor / pump unit 200 are located within the inflatable air system of the BFRT cuff 310.

[0128] 14, a front face 324 of the motor / pump unit 320 includes an LED display 326 that indicates the measured air pressure of the inflatable air system. As can be appreciated, other and / or additional information may be displayed on the display 326. The front face 324 may optionally include one or more buttons and / or switches (not shown).

[0129] 15-16, the motor / pump unit 320 is shown as being removably connectable to the outer surface 313 of the outer cover 312 of the BFRT cuff 310. The types of connection arrangements are non-limiting (e.g., snap connection arrangements, hook-and-loop fasteners, slot connection arrangements, tongue-and-groove connectors, etc.). As shown in FIG. 17, the outer surface 313 of the outer cover 312 of the BFRT cuff 310 includes a connector 318 configured to removably connect with the motor / pump unit 320 housing 322.

[0130] The BFRT cuff 310 includes a cuff fastening arrangement (not shown) for releasably fastening the BFRT cuff 310 to a user. The type of fastening arrangement is non-limiting (e.g., a snap connection arrangement, a hook-and-loop fastener, a snap fastener, a button fastener, etc.).

[0131] Operation of the BFRT system The operation of BFRT system 300 may be the same as or similar to the operation described above with respect to BFRT system 20.

[0132] Other non-limiting operational sequences for BFRT system 300 are set forth below. It will be understood that one or more of the steps described above with respect to BFRT system 20 may be used with one or more of the steps of BFRT system 300 described below.

[0133] In the first step, a user (not shown) selects an appropriately sized BFRT system 310 based on the user's upper arm circumference if for upper limb exercise, or based on upper thigh circumference if for lower limb exercise.

[0134] In the next step, the user places the BFRT cuff 310 around his / her arm or leg and secures the BFRT cuff 310 in the desired position on his / her arm or leg. The motor / pump unit 320 should be connected to the BFRT cuff 310 prior to attempting to inflate the inflatable air system of the BFRT cuff 310. In some non-limiting embodiments, the motor / pump unit 320 is integrated into the BFRT cuff 310, in which case it does not need to be connected to the BFRT cuff 310.

[0135] The next step is to inflate the inflatable air system of the BFRT cuff 310. This can be accomplished by manually activating the motor / pump unit 320 or by wirelessly activating the motor / pump unit 320. Such wireless activation can be accomplished using a mobile app or program on a smart device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, computer, laptop computer, server, data hub, cloud, etc.) and the like. As can be appreciated, the smart device and the like can also or alternatively be wired to the motor / pump unit 320 or (if the motor / pump unit 320 is integrated into the BFRT cuff 310) the BFRT cuff 310.

[0136] The pump of the motor / pump unit 320 pumps air into the inflatable air system of the BFRT cuff 310 until the desired pressure is reached. The pressure of the inflatable air system may optionally be viewed on a display 324 on the housing 322 of the motor / pump unit 320 and / or on another device (e.g., a smartphone, computer, tablet, etc.). The BFRT cuff 310 may optionally include a pressure control valve (not shown) to prevent over-pressurization of the inflatable air system. Once the desired pressure is achieved in the inflatable air system, the pump is terminated. The user may then proceed with their exercise.

[0137] During exercise, if the pressure sensor determines that the pressure in the inflatable air system exceeds a predetermined pressure, the BFRT system may include an auto-adjust feature that allows air pressure to be released from the inflatable air system until the predetermined pressure is achieved in the inflatable air system. If the pressure sensor determines that the pressure in the inflatable air system falls below a predetermined pressure, the air pressure in the inflatable air system may be increased by operating the motor / pump unit 320 until the predetermined pressure is achieved in the inflatable air system. The increase / decrease in the pressure of the inflatable air system can occur during use of the BFRT cuff 310 without requiring the user to interrupt their exercise. Such a feature is a significant improvement over prior art BFRT arrangements that required the user to stop exercising to manually increase or decrease the air pressure in the BFRT arrangement.

[0138] 16-17, motor / pump unit 320 may be configured to be detachable from BFRT cuff 310. If motor / pump unit 320 is detached from BFRT cuff 310 after the inflatable air system has been inflated, BFRT cuff 310 typically includes a valve arrangement that prevents deflation of the inflatable air system during and after removal of motor / pump unit 320 from BFRT cuff 310.

[0139] When the user has completed the desired exercise, the user may manually release the pressure in the inflatable air system using an app or program on a computer or other type of smart device to deflate the inflatable air system, and / or the inflatable air system may be automatically deflated. The user may then remove the BFRT cuff 310 from his / her arm or leg.

[0140] As can be appreciated, many of the steps in operating the BFRT cuff 310 may be the same as or similar to the steps in operating the BFRT cuff 100 described above.

[0141] The BFRT cuff 310 of the present disclosure includes several unique features, as described in more detail below.

[0142] The BFRT cuff 310 may have a urethane coated air bladder. The urethane coating on the bladder increases patient comfort by reducing pinching of the skin by the bladder when inflated.

[0143] The BFRT cuff 310 includes a motor / pump unit 320 that inflates and deflates one or more air chambers within the BFRT cuff 310. The motor / pump unit 320 is removably connectable to the BFRT cuff 310 and may remain connected to or be detached from the BFRT cuff prior to, during, and / or after use of the BFRT cuff 310. When the motor / pump unit 320 remains in the BFRT cuff 310 during a user's exercise, the motor / pump unit 320 may be configured to automatically increase or decrease the air pressure of the inflatable air system to maintain a desired air pressure in the inflatable air system during an exercise routine. Alternatively, the user may manually operate the motor / pump unit 320 to increase or decrease the pressure in the inflatable air system. During exercise, the motor / pump unit 320 may be detached from the BFRT cuff motor / pump unit 320 to reduce the weight of the BFRT system 300 on the user or to prevent accidental damage to the motor / pump unit 320 during strenuous exercise. The motor / pump unit 320 may be connected to and detached from the BFRT cuff 310 at any time before, during, or after an exercise routine. The BFRT cuff 310 includes a valve arrangement that prevents undesired deflation of the inflatable air system during connection of the motor / pump unit 320 to the BFRT cuff 310 and during removal of the motor / pump unit 320 from the BFRT cuff 310.

[0144] The motor / pump unit 320 may be powered by a battery contained within the housing of the motor / pump unit 320. Such a feature eliminates the need for a power cord to operate the motor / pump unit 320, making the BFRT cuff 310 more flexible and easier to use. The battery may be rechargeable, and the housing 322 of the motor / pump unit 320 may optionally include a power port such that a power cord, USB cord, or the like may be connected to the housing 322 to recharge the battery. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 320 may be designed to allow for wireless charging of the battery.

[0145] The motor / pump unit 320 used with the BFRT cuff 310 may include one or more displays 324. These one or more displays 324 may be used to inform the user: a) whether the pump is on / off, and / or b) battery status, and / or c) pressure level in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310, and / or d) time / date, and / or e) whether the pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 is below limb occlusion pressure, and / or f) error notification / status, and / or g) security status (e.g., locked or not), and / or h) ambient temperature, and / or i) timer / clock information, and / or j) alarm status / notification, and / or k) time of use, and / or l) pressure mode and / or operating mode and / or selected training session, and / or m) whether complete occlusion was achieved, and / or n) whether the maximum training time occurred, and / or o) wireless connection status to a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device.

[0146] The motor / pump unit 320 of the BFRT cuff 310 may be configured to be controlled manually by a user activating / pressing / moving a button, switch, position on a display, etc., and / or the motor / pump unit 320 may be configured to be controlled wirelessly and / or wired by a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device. Wired and / or wireless control of the motor / pump unit 320 may be achieved via a program or app running on a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device. Wired and / or wireless control of the motor / pump unit 320 may be achieved by voice commands. As can be appreciated, the motor / pump unit 320 may include electronics, software, etc. that enable voice control of the motor / pump unit 320 without the need for a computer or other type of smart device. If a program or app is used to control the motor / pump unit 320 via wired and / or wireless communication, the program or app may be used to monitor the operation of the motor / pump unit 320 and control the operation of the motor / pump unit 320 and / or monitor the status of the BFRT cuff 310.

[0147] BFRT cuff 310 optionally includes a pressure sensor and one or more processors to a) facilitate controlling / maintaining / adjusting the pressure in one or more air chambers of BFRT cuff 310, b) provide pressure information to motor / pump unit 320 to be displayed on motor / pump unit 320 and / or transmitted wired and / or wirelessly to a remote device, c) provide pressure information to be displayed on one or more displays of BFRT cuff 310 and / or transmitted wired and / or wirelessly to a remote device, and d) wirelessly provide pressure information to a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device for display using a computer program or mobile app. The one or more pressure sensors may be part of motor / pump unit 320 and / or may be located at various locations on BFRT cuff 310.

[0148] The motor / pump unit of BFRT cuff 310 may be configured to allow a user to manually input a predetermined limb occlusion pressure, and motor / pump unit 320 may use such information to control / maintain / adjust the pressure in one or more air chambers of BFRT cuff 310. BFRT cuff 310 may also or alternatively be configured to receive information regarding the automatic calculation of the predetermined limb occlusion pressure via wired and / or wireless means via a computer program or mobile app running on a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device, and then use such information to control / maintain / adjust the pressure in one or more air chambers of BFRT cuff 310.

[0149] The BFRT cuff 310 may include one or more sensors and / or control systems that automatically stop the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after sensing that occlusion pressure has been maintained in one or more air chambers for a preset period of time (e.g., 0.001 to 30 seconds, 0.001 to 1 minute, 0.001 to 4 minutes, 0.001 to 5 minutes, etc.). In one non-limiting arrangement, the BFRT cuff 310 and / or motor / pump unit 320 may include one or more sensors and / or control systems that automatically stop the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after sensing that occlusion pressure has been maintained in one or more air chambers for 0.001 to 45 seconds (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween). Such features facilitate proper use of the BFRT cuff 310 and prevent occlusion pressure from being applied to the user for extended periods of time while using the BFRT cuff 310, so as not to damage or impair the rehabilitation of the user's tissues.

[0150] The BFRT cuff 310 and / or motor / pump unit 320 may include a sensor and / or control system that automatically shuts down the motor / pump unit and / or releases pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after a preset period of time (e.g., 20 minutes). Such a feature preserves the life of the BFRT cuff 310 and serves as another safety feature for the BFRT cuff 310. In one non-limiting arrangement, the BFRT cuff 310 and / or motor / pump unit 320 may include one or more sensors and / or control systems that automatically shut down the pump and / or motor / pump unit 320 and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after 2 to 20 minutes (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween).

[0151] The BFRT cuff 310 and / or motor / pump unit 320 may include one or more sensors (e.g., motion sensors, etc.) to detect use or non-use of the BFRT cuff 310 and to automatically stop the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after a preset period of non-use of the BFRT cuff 310 (e.g., 1 to 20 minutes, etc.). Such features preserve the life of the BFRT cuff 310. In one non-limiting arrangement, the BFRT cuff 310 and / or motor / pump unit 320 include one or more sensors to detect use or non-use of the BFRT cuff 310 and to automatically stop the pump and / or release pressure in one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 after 1 to 10 minutes of non-use of the BFRT cuff 310 (and all values ​​and ranges therebetween).

[0152] The BFRT cuff 310 may optionally include a GPS sensor or other type of location sensor used to track the location of the BFRT cuff 310 and / or monitor the movement of the BFRT cuff 310 during an exercise routine to determine whether the BFRT cuff 310 is being used properly by the user during the exercise routine.

[0153] The BFRT cuff 310 may optionally include lateral sensors and / or motion sensors and / or gyroscope arrangements for monitoring movement of the BFRT cuff 310 during an exercise routine to determine whether the BFRT cuff 310 is being properly used by the user during the exercise routine.

[0154] The BFRT cuff 310 may include one or more pressure modes (e.g., ischemic preconditioning (IPC) mode, manual mode, automatic mode, etc.). These modes may be selected manually and / or wirelessly and / or wired and / or via voice command. In IPC mode, the BFRT cuff 310 is inflated for a specific period (e.g., 10 seconds to 5 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween]) until total occlusion of the artery, with a pause interval during the total occlusion (e.g., 10 seconds to 4 minutes [and all values ​​and ranges therebetween]). In automatic mode, the motor / pump unit 320 automatically sets the appropriate pressure based on the %LOP value set by the user or by information received wirelessly from a device that automatically calculates the optimal pressure based on the %LOP value set by the user. In manual mode, the user manually sets the pressure on the BFRT cuff 310 or on a device that then transmits pressure information wired and / or wirelessly to the BFRT cuff 310 .

[0155] The BFRT cuff 310 may be monitored and / or controlled by a computer program and / or a mobile app running on a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device. The computer program and / or mobile app may: 1) select the operating mode of the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 2) activate / deactivate the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 3) send / receive information to / from the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 4) select / control / maintain / reduce the pressure of one or more air chambers of the BFRT cuff 310 while the user is using the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 5) monitor the operation of the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 6) maintain a log of the use of the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 7) provide an exercise plan for the user using the BFRT cuff 310; and / or 8) record / monitor the progress / adaptation of the user's exercise plan; and / or 9) may select / recommend BFRT training sessions for the user, and / or 10) may monitor the user's BFRT training sessions, 10) may provide the user with suggested training tips for the BFRT, and / or 11) may provide the user with BFRT information, and / or 12) may send data to / receive data from the user's BFRT trainer or instructor, and / or 13) may maintain the BFRT cuff pressure or pressure range or %LOP or %LOP range during use, and / or 14) may partially or fully deflate the BFRT cuff for a specified period after exercise, between exercise routines, or after non-use of the BFRT cuff is detected.

[0156] The BFRT cuff 310 may include security protocols to prevent misuse and / or unauthorized use of the BFRT 310. A computer program and / or mobile app capable of running on a computer and / or tablet and / or smartphone and / or other type of smart device may include password protection and / or other security controls to prevent unauthorized use of the BFRT cuff 310 and / or access to personal information related to use of the BFRT cuff 310. The motor / pump unit 320 may include password protection to prevent unauthorized operation of the BFRT cuff 310.

[0157] For the assistance of the Patent Office and readers of any patents resulting from the interpretation of this application and the claims appended hereto, applicant does not intend that any claim or claim element in the appended claims implement 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the words "means for" and "step for" are expressly used in a particular claim.

[0158] It will thus be seen that the above objectives are efficiently accomplished, among those that will become apparent from the foregoing description. And since certain modifications may be made in the described structure without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings is intended to be interpreted in an illustrative, and not limiting, sense. The invention has been described in terms of preferred and alternative embodiments. Modifications and variations will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. The invention is intended to include all such modifications and variations insofar as they fall within the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the general specific features of the invention described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the invention that may be made as a matter of language. The invention has been described in terms of a preferred embodiment. These and other modifications of the preferred embodiment, as well as other embodiments, of the invention will be apparent from the disclosure herein, and the foregoing illustrative matter should be interpreted as merely illustrative of the invention, and not as limiting. It is intended to include all such modifications and variations insofar as they fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0159] (Appendix 1) An exercise method using a Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) system, comprising: a.Providing a BFRT cuff; the BFRT cuff includes: 1) a flexible outer member; 2) an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 3) a connection arrangement configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb; the flexible outer member has a length of at least 20 cm and a width of at least 5 cm; b. Providing a motor / pump unit; the motor / pump unit is configured to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff; 5. The motor / pump unit Housing and an air connection arrangement that fluidly connects the housing to the BFRT cuff so as to allow air drawn from the motor / pump unit to flow and at least partially inflate the air chamber; Including, the housing is less than 400 cubic inches in size and weighs less than 4 pounds; the housing at least partially contains: 1) an air pump; 2) a power source; and 3) a pressure sensor; c. placing the BFRT cuff on the user's limb; d. connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit in a manner that allows air flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; e. Selecting, manually or automatically, a selected pressure value or percent of limb occlusion pressure (LOP); the pressure value is less than the LOP and the percentage is 90% or less; f. inflating the BFRT cuff by causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved; g. after the LOP of the limb is achieved, stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff; h. reducing pressure in the BFRT cuff until the pressure value is the selected pressure value or the percentage of LOP within 0.001 to 30 seconds after the LOP is achieved in the BFRT cuff; i. exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is placed on the user's limb; Including, A) if, during the exercise step, the pressure in the air chamber falls below the selected pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below the percentage of the LOP, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum percentage LOP value, the motor / pump unit activates the air pump to increase the pressure in the air chamber; and / or B) during the exercise step, if the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the selected pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the percent of the LOP, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or exceeds a preset maximum pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or exceeds a preset maximum percent LOP value, the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff reduces the pressure in the air chamber to reduce the pressure in the air chamber; Exercise method.

[0160] (Appendix 2) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the lowering step is accomplished at least in part by causing the motor / pump unit to deflate air from the BFRT cuff.

[0161] (Appendix 3) 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of removing the BFRT cuff from the user's limb after the step of exercising the limb.

[0162] (Appendix 4) 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising the step of removing the BFRT cuff from the user's limb after the step of exercising the limb.

[0163] (Appendix 5) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the housing of the motor / pump unit provides three or more types of information selected from the group consisting of: a) measured pressure; b) power or charge level of the power source; c) warning symbols when certain warning events occur; d) selected %LOP; e) selected pressure; f) instructional information on how to use the motor / pump unit and / or BFRT cuff; and g) arm or leg selection options for the BFRT cuff.

[0164] (Appendix 6) 5. The method of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the housing of the motor / pump unit provides three or more types of information selected from the group consisting of: a) measured pressure; b) power or charge level of the power source; c) warning symbols when certain warning events occur; d) selected %LOP; e) selected pressure; f) instructional information on how to use the motor / pump unit and / or BFRT cuff; and g) arm or leg selection options for the BFRT cuff.

[0165] (Appendix 7) further comprising the step of turning on or powering up the motor / pump unit; the motor / pump unit is configured to regulate at ambient pressure after the motor / pump unit is turned on or powered up; The method described in Appendix 1.

[0166] (Appendix 8) further comprising the step of turning on or powering up the motor / pump unit; the motor / pump unit is configured to regulate at ambient pressure after the motor / pump unit is turned on or powered up; 7. The method of any one of appendices 2 to 6.

[0167] (Appendix 9) 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of selecting a limb on which the motor / pump unit is to be placed.

[0168] (Appendix 10) 9. The method of any one of claims 2 to 8, further comprising the step of selecting a limb on which the motor / pump unit is to be placed.

[0169] (Appendix 11) An exercise method using a Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) system, comprising: a.Providing a BFRT cuff; the BFRT cuff includes: 1) an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 3) a connection arrangement configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb; b. Providing a motor / pump unit; the motor / pump unit is configured to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff; 5. The motor / pump unit Housing and an air connection arrangement that fluidly connects the housing to the BFRT cuff so that air drawn from the motor / pump unit can flow therethrough to at least partially inflate the air chamber; Including, the housing contains, at least in part, 1) an air pump; and 2) a power source; c. placing the BFRT cuff on the user's limb; d. connecting the BFRT cuff to the motor / pump unit so as to permit air flow between the BFRT cuff and the motor / pump unit; e. Selecting a pressure value or percent of limb occlusion pressure (LOP), either manually or automatically; the pressure value is less than the LOP; f. inflating the BFRT cuff by causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved; g. after the LOP of the limb is achieved, stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff; h. after the LOP is achieved in the BFRT cuff, reducing pressure in the BFRT cuff until the pressure value is the selected pressure value or the percentage of the LOP; i. exercising the user's limb while the BFRT cuff is placed on the user's limb; Including, A) if, during the exercise step, the pressure in the air chamber falls below the selected pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below the percentage of the LOP, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum percent LOP value, the motor / pump unit activates the air pump to raise the pressure in the air chamber to within a specified pressure range or within a specified range of percent LOP; and / or B) if, during the exercise step, the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the selected pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the percent of the LOP, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or exceeds a preset maximum pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or exceeds a preset maximum percent LOP value, the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff reduces the pressure in the air chamber to be within a specified pressure range or within a specified range of percent LOP; 1) if the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff detects cessation of use of the BFRT cuff by the user after a preselected period of time, the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff reduces the pressure in the air chamber below the selected pressure value or the percentage of the LOP; or 2) after the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff detects that a specific number of repetitions or a selected exercise has been completed, the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff reduces the pressure in the air chamber to below the selected pressure value or the percentage of the LOP; Exercise method.

[0170] (Appendix 12) 12. The method of claim 11, comprising wirelessly controlling the motor / pump unit.

[0171] (Appendix 13) 1. A Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) system, comprising: a. Includes BFRT cuff, the BFRT cuff includes: 1) an air chamber at least partially enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 2) a connection arrangement configured to secure the BFRT cuff to a user's limb; b. the BFRT system further comprises a motor / pump unit; the motor / pump unit is configured to at least partially inflate the BFRT cuff; 5. The motor / pump unit Housing and an air connection arrangement that fluidly connects the housing to the BFRT cuff so that air drawn from the motor / pump unit can flow therethrough to at least partially inflate the air chamber; Including, the housing at least partially contains: 1) an air pump; 2) a power source; and 3) a controller; the housing is less than 400 cubic inches in size and weighs less than 4 pounds; The controller a) causing the motor / pump unit to supply air to the BFRT cuff to inflate the BFRT cuff until the LOP of the limb is achieved; b) stopping the flow of air from the motor / pump unit to the BFRT cuff after the LOP of the limb is achieved; c) after the LOP is achieved in the BFRT cuff, reducing the pressure in the BFRT cuff until the pressure in the air chamber is at a selected pressure value or a selected percentage of the LOP; It is composed of The controller A) activate the motor / pump unit to raise the pressure in the air chamber to within a specified pressure range or within a specified range of percent LOP when the pressure in the air chamber falls below the selected pressure value, or when the pressure in the air chamber falls below the selected percent of LOP, or when the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum pressure value, or when the pressure in the air chamber falls below a preset minimum percent LOP value; and / or B) activate the motor / pump unit to reduce the pressure in the air chamber to within a specified pressure range or within a specified range of percent LOP if the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the selected pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber exceeds the percentage of LOP, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or greater than a preset maximum pressure value, or if the pressure in the air chamber is equal to or greater than a preset maximum percent LOP value; The BFRT system is configured.

[0172] (Appendix 14) The controller i) when the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff detects cessation of use of the BFRT cuff after a preselected period of time, causing the motor / pump unit to reduce the pressure in the air chamber below the selected pressure value or the percentage of the LOP; or 2) when the motor / pump unit or the BFRT cuff detects that a specific number of repetitions or a selected exercise has been completed, cause the motor / pump unit to reduce the pressure in the air chamber below the selected pressure value or the percentage of the LOP; 14. The BFRT system of claim 13, wherein the BFRT system is configured

Claims

1. 1. An exercise method using a portable Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) system, comprising: a. providing a portable BFRT cuff; the portable BFRT cuff includes: 1) a flexible outer member; 2) a single air chamber enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 3) a connection arrangement configured to releasably secure the portable BFRT cuff to a user's limb; b. Providing a portable inflation unit; the portable inflation unit is configured to at least partially inflate the portable BFRT cuff during actuation of the portable inflation unit; The portable inflation unit comprises: Housing and A fluid pump; A pressure sensor; A controller; A radio receiver; A rechargeable power source; an air connection arrangement; Including, the fluid pump, the pressure sensor, the controller, the wireless receiver, and the rechargeable power source are contained within the housing; the housing is removably connected to the portable BFRT cuff; the housing is less than 400 cubic inches in size and weighs less than 4 pounds; The controller 1) causing the fluid pump to supply fluid to the portable BFRT cuff to inflate the portable BFRT cuff; 2) causing the fluid pump to remove fluid from the portable BFRT cuff; configured to control operation of the fluid pump; the air connection arrangement is located on a bottom surface of the housing and is configured to fluidly connect the fluid pump to the portable BFRT cuff when the housing is detachably connected to the portable BFRT cuff; the housing of the portable inflation unit connected to the portable BFRT cuff allows fluid flow between the portable BFRT cuff and the portable inflation unit; c. Providing a portable smart device; the portable smart device includes a mobile device app configured to allow a user to control and monitor the operation of the portable inflation unit; the portable smart device is configured to wirelessly communicate with the controller of the portable inflation unit; the mobile device app includes at least one exercise program; the portable smart device is a mobile phone, a laptop computer, or a tablet; d. placing the portable BFRT cuff on the user's limb; e. Selecting the exercise program in the mobile device app; the selection of the exercise program causes the portable smart device to wirelessly transmit instructions to the portable inflation unit to inflate the portable BFRT cuff to a first pressure, then reduce the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff to a percentage of the first pressure, and then allow the user to exercise the user's limb while the portable BFRT cuff is inflated around the user's limb; the first pressure is a pre-programmed upper limit pressure or a detected limb occlusion pressure (LOP) or a pre-programmed or manually entered programmed %LOP, which indicates a percentage of the LOP; the exercise program is configured to allow a user to select both A) the limb to which the portable BFRT cuff is to be removably attached, and B) % LOP; f. Selecting the limb on which the portable BFRT cuff will be placed via the exercise program on the mobile device app; g. inflating the portable BFRT cuff by causing the portable inflation unit to supply air to the portable BFRT cuff until the first pressure is achieved; h) stopping the flow of air from the portable inflation unit to the portable BFRT cuff after the first pressure is achieved in the portable BFRT cuff; i. reducing the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff within 0.001 to 30 seconds after the first pressure is achieved; the step of reducing pressure continues until the pressure value of the portable BFRT cuff reaches the programmed % LOP or a certain percentage of the pre-programmed upper pressure limit; the step of reducing pressure is by actuation of the portable inflation unit; j) exercising the user's limb while the portable BFRT cuff is placed on the limb of the user and the pressure value of the portable BFRT cuff is a percentage of the programmed % LOP or the pre-programmed upper pressure limit; k. after the exercising step is completed, causing the portable inflation unit to deflate the portable BFRT cuff so that the pressure value of the portable BFRT cuff drops below the programmed % LOP or a percentage of the pre-programmed upper pressure limit; l. Removing the portable BFRT cuff from the user's limb; Including, The mobile device app 1) causing the portable inflation unit to reduce the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff when the pressure value in the portable BFRT cuff exceeds a preset maximum pressure value; and 2) causing the portable inflation unit to stop operating if the portable inflation unit operates for longer than a preset period of time; The mobile device app allowing the user to monitor the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff; maintaining a log of user usage of the portable BFRT cuff; providing an exercise plan for the user using the portable BFRT cuff; Exercise method.

2. The mobile device app further comprises: 1) recording or monitoring the progress or compliance of the user's exercise plan using the portable BFRT cuff; 2) selecting or recommending BFRT training sessions for said user; and 3) monitoring the user's BFRT training sessions; and 4) Providing the user with suggested training information for the portable BFRT cuff; and 5) providing the user with BFRT information; 6) transmitting data to or receiving data from the user's BFRT trainer or instructor; configured to perform one or more functions selected from the group consisting of: The method of claim 1.

3. A method as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising having the portable inflation unit further deflate the portable BFRT cuff after the user has finished exercising the user's limb, and then removing the portable BFRT cuff from the user's limb.

4. A method as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising the step of adjusting the pressure sensor of the housing to the ambient air pressure prior to inflating the portable BFRT cuff.

5. A method as described in claim 1 or 2, further comprising the step of reducing the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff if the user does not use the portable BFRT cuff for a preselected period of time.

6. The portable BFRT cuff includes an air release valve; The air chamber is a bladder including a polyurethane coating.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

7. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the portable inflation unit includes one or more preset values ​​that limit the selection of the %LOP value or the %maximum pressure value so that a) the selected %LOP is between preprogrammed maximum and minimum values, or b) the selected %maximum pressure, which indicates a percentage of the maximum pressure, is between preprogrammed maximum and minimum values.

8. 1. A portable Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) system comprising: a. Includes a portable BFRT cuff; the portable BFRT cuff includes: 1) a flexible outer member; 2) a single air chamber enclosed by the flexible outer member; and 3) a connection arrangement configured to releasably secure the portable BFRT cuff to a user's limb; b. A portable inflation unit is included; the portable inflation unit is configured to at least partially inflate the portable BFRT cuff during actuation of the portable inflation unit; The portable inflation unit comprises: Housing and A fluid pump; A pressure sensor; A controller; A radio receiver; A rechargeable power source; an air connection arrangement; Including, the fluid pump, the pressure sensor, the controller, the wireless receiver, and the rechargeable power source are contained within the housing; the housing is removably connected to the portable BFRT cuff; the housing is less than 400 cubic inches in size and weighs less than 4 pounds; The controller 1) causing the fluid pump to supply fluid to the portable BFRT cuff to inflate the portable BFRT cuff; 2) causing the fluid pump to remove fluid from the portable BFRT cuff; configured to control operation of the fluid pump; the air connection arrangement is located on a bottom surface of the housing and is configured to fluidly connect the fluid pump to the portable BFRT cuff when the housing is detachably connected to the portable BFRT cuff; the housing of the portable inflation unit connected to the portable BFRT cuff allows fluid flow between the portable BFRT cuff and the portable inflation unit; c. including a handheld smart device; the portable smart device includes a mobile device app configured to allow a user to control and monitor the operation of the portable inflation unit; the portable smart device is configured to wirelessly communicate with the controller of the portable inflation unit; the mobile device app includes at least one exercise program; the portable smart device is a mobile phone, a laptop computer, or a tablet; Selection of the exercise program on the mobile device app causes the portable smart device to wirelessly transmit instructions to the portable inflation unit, causing the portable inflation unit to inflate the portable BFRT cuff to a first pressure, then reduce the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff to a percentage of the first pressure, and then allow the user to exercise the user's limb while the portable BFRT cuff is inflated around the user's limb; the first pressure is a pre-programmed upper limit pressure or a detected limb occlusion pressure (LOP) or a pre-programmed or manually entered programmed %LOP, which indicates a percentage of the LOP; the exercise program is configured to allow a user to select one or more of: A) a limb to which the portable BFRT cuff is to be removably attached; B) the pre-programmed upper limit pressure; C) the programmed % LOP; or D) a percentage of the pre-programmed upper limit pressure; The mobile device app allowing the user to monitor the pressure in the portable BFRT cuff; maintaining a log of user usage of the portable BFRT cuff; providing an exercise plan for the user using the portable BFRT cuff; Portable BFRT system.

9. The mobile device app further comprises: 1) recording or monitoring the progress or compliance of the user's exercise plan using the portable BFRT cuff; 2) selecting or recommending BFRT training sessions for said user; and 3) monitoring the user's BFRT training sessions; and 4) Providing the user with suggested training information for the portable BFRT cuff; and 5) providing the user with BFRT information; 6) transmitting data to or receiving data from the user's BFRT trainer or instructor; configured to perform one or more functions selected from the group consisting of: The portable BFRT system of claim 8.

10. A portable BFRT system as described in claim 8 or 9, wherein the controller is configured to use the pressure sensor in the housing to adjust with ambient air pressure prior to inflating the portable BFRT cuff.

11. A portable BFRT system as described in claim 8 or 9, wherein the controller is configured to reduce pressure in the portable BFRT cuff if the user does not use the portable BFRT cuff for a preselected period of time.

12. The portable BFRT system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the portable inflation unit includes one or more preset values ​​that limit the selection of the %LOP value or the %maximum pressure value so that a) the selected %LOP is between preprogrammed maximum and minimum values, or b) the selected %maximum pressure, which indicates a percentage of the maximum pressure, is between preprogrammed maximum and minimum values.

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