External Counterpulsation (ECP) Therapy is a non-invasive, compression therapy, clinically proven to boost blood circulation to keep your heart and organs in optimum health.

Chest pain? Shortness of breath? Dizziness or headaches? The problem could be poor blood flow.

Our heart and circulatory system are designed to transport oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body, as well as filter out waste and carbon dioxide. Good blood flow is essential to good health, and has a positive effect on your mind and body.

Poor blood circulation greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries. As plaque builds up, it blocks and reduces the amount of blood flowing through. When this restricts blood flow to the heart muscle, it can cause chest pain, also known as angina. Angina can make it difficult to enjoy one's favourite activities, or even perform simple daily tasks.

In severe cases, plaque can block entire blood vessels. When blockage happens in the vessels supplying blood to the heart muscle or brain, it can lead to a heart attack and a stroke respectively.

What is ECP Therapy and how does it enhance blood flow?

ECP Therapy is a safe and non-invasive process that increases blood circulation and is used for the treatment of chronic stable angina. It enhances blood flow by pushing blood from the lower body toward the heart.

Pressure cuffs are wrapped around your lower body while you lay comfortably. These cuffs inflate when your heart is at rest and deflate right before your heart pumps. Due to the precise synchronisation with your heartbeat, ECP therapy has been described as a ‘second heart’ that allows your heart to perform with less effort. The therapy is soothing and relaxing, much like a lower body massage. Many people listen to music, watch TV or simply rest during a therapy session.

How Does ECP Work?

Once comfortable on the therapy bed, inflatable cuffs (similar to blood pressure cuffs) are wrapped around the calves, thighs and hips. ECG sensors are then placed on the chest for heartbeat detection. During treatment, the cuffs inflate and deflate in time with each heartbeat. Inflation happens sequentially from the calves up to the hip, boosting blood flow in and around the heart. The rhythmic pulsing of the cuffs is firm, yet comfortable – like a leg massage.