In the field of cardiovascular disease rehabilitation, external counterpulsation is becoming the preferred choice for an increasing number of patients due to its advantages of being non-invasive, painless, and convenient. Clinically, many cardiovascular patients have effectively improved their symptoms and regained their vitality through this technique.
Director Shu Yue of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Hainan Chengmei Hospital stated that external counterpulsation is a safe and effective physical rehabilitation method that provides gentle yet powerful support for heart health, especially for patients who require long-term cardiac rehabilitation.
What is external counterpulsation?
"Many people are unfamiliar with 'counterpulsation', but in fact, it is completely non-invasive, requiring no injections or surgery, and can be done while lying down for rehabilitation." Director Shu Yue explained that External Counterpulsation (EECP), whose full name is Enhanced External Counterpulsation, is a green therapy that assists the heart in blood supply and reduces the burden on the heart through physical means.
During treatment, the patient wears specially made anti-flail airbag leggings, and the instrument precisely matches the rhythm of the heartbeat:
During the diastolic phase of the heart, the airbag sequentially applies pressure from the lower leg to the thigh and then to the buttocks, "returning" blood from the lower extremities to the heart, thereby increasing coronary blood supply and nourishing the myocardial tissue;
During the cardiac contraction phase, the balloon is rapidly deflated, reducing the resistance to heart pumping and decreasing myocardial oxygen consumption, which is equivalent to giving the heart a "boost".
Who is suitable for external counterpulsation?
Director Shu Yue clearly pointed out that external counterpulsation covers both treatment and healthcare populations, with a wide range of applications:
✅ Recovery period after coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction surgery: Improve myocardial blood supply and promote the establishment of collateral circulation
✅ Stable phase of heart failure: Reduce cardiac load, enhance cardiac function and activity ability
✅ Hypertension and hyperlipidemia: Assist in improving vascular elasticity and regulating blood lipids
✅ For long-term sedentary office workers and middle-aged and elderly people: relieves dizziness, fatigue, and poor blood circulation, and helps prevent cardiovascular diseases
Important reminder: These precautions must be firmly remembered
Although external counterpulsation is safe, it is not suitable for everyone. Scientific treatment can maximize the effect and minimize the risk.
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These conditions are contraindications
People with severe arrhythmia, aortic valve insufficiency, active bleeding, severe lower limb vascular disease, and thrombotic diseases are prohibited from using this product. Before treatment, a comprehensive evaluation must be conducted by a doctor, and it is not allowed to try it on one's own.
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Adhere to standardized treatment courses
Cardiac rehabilitation is a long-term process. External counterpulsation involves 1 to 2 courses per year (each course consists of 36 sessions, with 1 to 2 sessions per day, each session lasting about 30 minutes). Continuous practice yields better results;
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Do not replace drug therapy
External counterpulsation is a rehabilitation method and cannot replace regular medication. It should be used under the guidance of a doctor, in conjunction with regular medication, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise for a more comprehensive recovery.
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Small details after treatment
After the procedure, you may appropriately move your lower limbs to promote circulation; avoid standing or sitting for long periods. If you experience any discomfort such as soreness, numbness, or swelling in your lower limbs, please inform the doctor promptly.
Director Shu Yue reminds us that recovery from cardiovascular diseases cannot be rushed. Only by choosing scientific and non-invasive rehabilitation methods and persisting over the long term can we gradually restore heart vitality. If you or your family members experience chest tightness, shortness of breath, decreased activity ability, etc., it is advisable to consult the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department in a timely manner to assess whether external counterpulsation therapy is suitable for you.
Expert Introduction
Shu Yue, Deputy Chief Physician
Director of Cardiac Rehabilitation Department
Hainan Free Trade Port E-type Talents
Medical expertise:
Skilled in conventional treatment and cardiac rehabilitation therapy for cardiovascular diseases and critically ill patients; exercise therapy and exercise healthcare for hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and heart disease; chronic disease management, cardiorespiratory endurance assessment, and physical fitness training.