Enhanced External Counter Pulsation
How is ECP
therapy performed?
After a full client assessment, Renew™ ECP Therapy is administered by a trained Renew™ ECP Therapy Operator. Once the client has made themselves comfortable on the Renew™ Therapy treatment bed, inflatable cuffs (similar to blood pressure cuffs) are wrapped around the calves, thighs, and hips. ECG (Electro Cardio Gram) sensors are then placed on the chest to detect the heartbeat.
What happens
during treatment?
During treatment, the cuffs inflate and deflate synchronously with each heartbeat. Inflation happens sequentially from the calves up to the hips. The inflation of the cuffs squeeze blood from the lower legs up toward the heart, thus improving blood flow in and around the heart. The rhythmic pulsing of the cuffs is firm, yet comfortable – like a leg massage.
How the body responds to ECP
A STRONGER
HEART
The precise timing of the inflation and deflation of the cuffs during treatment gives rise to two effects. Diastolic augmentation – an increase in pressure when the heart is at rest between beats, which increases blood flow. Systolic unloading – a reduction in pressure when the heart beats, thereby decreasing its workload. These actions together increase cardiac output and blood flow to the heart and to the rest of the body’s major organs.
IMPROVED VASCULAR
FUNCTION
Renew™ ECP Therapy has been shown to dramatically increase shear stress in major arteries of both the upper and lower limbs. With continued treatments, this can lead to improved vascular health, in the form of enhanced endothelial function and reduced arterial stiffness. Renew™ ECP Therapy can also be used for the treatment of chronic stable angina.
REDUCED INFLAMMATION AND STRESS
Renew™ ECP Therapy can reduce the levels of several markers of inflammation in the blood. Studies have also found increased levels of angiogenesis (where new blood vessels are formed) markers in the blood. These findings suggest potential benefits in terms of both acute sports recovery and longer-term protective benefits to overall health. These life-changing effects can improve overall quality of life for several years afterwards.