The North Carolina Board of Physical Therapy Examiners addressed whether blood flow restriction training is within the scope of PT practice in NC at its meeting on September 14, 2017.
According to Board Rule 48C .0101 (a) Permitted Practice, “Physical therapy is presumed to include any acts, tests, procedures, modalities, treatments, or interventions that are routinely taught in educational programs, or in continuing education programs for physical therapists and are routinely performed in practice settings.” The Board’s research indicated that blood flow restriction training currently does not satisfy the three components in Board Rule 48C .0101 (a) because it is not “routinely” taught or performed. Therefore, physical therapy services are not being performed while using blood flow restriction training, and physical therapy documentation requirements do not apply. Further, patients receiving this technique should not be advised or led to believe they are receiving physical therapy.
