EECP (Enhanced External Counter Pulsation)

What Is EECP and Who Can Benefit?

Enhanced External Counter pulsation (EECP) is a non-invasive therapy that uses external cuffs on the legs, which inflate and deflate in rhythm with the heartbeat. This process enhances venous return and circulation, promoting the creation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), the strengthening of capillaries, and improved perfusion of major organs such as the heart, lungs, brain and kidneys, all without surgery or medication.

 

Age-Related Internal Health Issues

•  The Aging Pigment of the Heart: Lipofuscin accumulates in heart muscle cells due to incomplete breakdown of damaged components, leading to cellular degeneration, valve stiffening and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
•  Aging Effects on Blood Vessels and Heart Function: With age, blood vessels lose elasticity, leading to arterial stiffness, higher blood pressure, thickening of the heart muscle and a cycle of increased workload that weakens the cardiovascular system.
•  Common Cardiovascular Problems: In older adults, structural and functional changes often lead to angina, shortness of breath, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias and heart failure.

 

 

Holistic Prevention

•  Control cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking.
•  Adopt a heart-healthy diet: reduce saturated fat, lower cholesterol intake and maintain a healthy weight.
•  Reduce or quit smoking to improve vascular and overall health.
•  Increase physical activity with regular exercise to strengthen cardiovascular function.

 

How EECP is Performed

Enhanced External Counter pulsation (EECP) is a non-invasive therapy performed with the patient lying comfortably on a treatment table. Large inflatable cuffs are wrapped around the calves, thighs and hips. These cuffs inflate sequentially during the relaxation phase of the heartbeat (diastole), pushing blood back toward the heart and improving coronary perfusion. They then deflate just before the heart contracts (systole), reducing the resistance the heart must pump against. Each session typically lasts about 1 hour and a full treatment course usually consists of 30–35 sessions over 6–7 weeks.

 

 

Who Is EECP For

•  Heart Patients with Angina or coronary artery disease (CAD): For those with chronic stable angina, blocked or narrowed arteries who are not candidates for surgery or stents.
•  Post-Surgery or Post-Stent Patients: Improves circulation when traditional interventions are not enough.
•  Patients Not Suitable for Surgery: A safe, non-invasive option for elderly patients, those with diabetes, kidney disease, or multiple blockages who face high surgical risk.
•  Individual indirect benefits for chronic lung condition and aids recovery in post-COVID or long COVID patients
•  People with Heart Failure or Poor Circulation: Enhances blood flow to the heart, brain, kidneys and lungs.
•  Men with erectile dysfunction (ED support)
•  Individuals with Risk Factors: Such as hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Promoting vascular health, energy and circulation.
•  Post-Covid / Long Covid Patients: Supports recovery from lingering symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and circulation issues caused by Covid-related vascular and heart complications.

Benefits of EECP

• During vascular massage compression, the body produces VGF (Vascular Growth Factor), stimulating new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) and strengthening capillary networks.
• Enhance blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body, reducing ischemia and improving tissue function.
• Improve circulation without overworking the heart, helping the cardiovascular system function more efficiently.
• Strengthen blood vessels, improving vascular resilience and long-term cardiovascular health.
• Benefit vital organs such as the heart, lungs, brain and kidneys, leading to fewer episodes of chest pain, better exercise tolerance and improved vitality.
• Support erectile function (ED support) by restoring blood flow to penile tissue, promoting natural sexual health.
• Provide indirect benefits for those with chronic lung disease or recovering from COVID-19/Long COVID, by increasing oxygen availability, reducing fatigue and promoting cellular repair.
• Improve kidney health by enhancing renal circulation, supporting efficient waste filtration and protecting against vascular-related kidney decline.

Adequate preparation prior to EECP

•  Get adequate rest the night before treatment.
•  Undergo medical evaluation (blood pressure, heart rhythm, vascular health).
•  Wear comfortable clothing.
•  Avoid heavy meals before the session.
•  Empty the bladder beforehand.
•  Inform your physician about all medications. Do not stop or adjust any drugs unless advised by your doctor (especially anticoagulants, heart medications, or diabetes drugs).

Appropriate care after EECP

•  Drink enough water to stay hydrated.
•  Continue regular medications as prescribed.
•  Light walking or stretching can help circulation.
•  Observe for any unusual symptoms (pain, swelling, bruising) and inform your doctor if they occur.
•  Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle to support long-term benefits.

Why Consider EECP

EECP has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a safe, evidence-based therapy. It is particularly suitable for patients who are not candidates for balloon angioplasty, stent placement, or bypass surgery, as well as for individuals seeking preventive vascular care. Beyond enhancing circulation and vitality, EECP strengthens capillaries, supports sexual and pulmonary health and promotes kidney function through improved renal blood flow. Serving both therapeutic and preventive purposes, EECP enables individuals to maintain cardiovascular health and overall quality of life.

 

 

Source:

www.kcwellness.co.th