Enhanced external counterpulsation

An underutilized tool in the cardiovascular armamentarium, for Cardiologists and Endocrinologists in particular to be aware of, is Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) Therapy. EECP is recognized as a valuable therapeutic option for patients with Coronary Artery Disease and Diabetes Mellitus. The mechanism by which this technique exerts favorable results may also offer the "over-30" generation a viable option for the prevention and treatment of endothelial dysfunction, particularly in early insulin resistance, thereby helping diminish vascular aging. EECP may also improve athletic performance and can serve as a valuable component of cardiovascular fitness programs for competitive sports teams and individual athletes. Developed at Harvard in the early 1950s to enhance the development of coronary collateral circulation, EECP has since been shown in multiple clinical trials to provide benefits not only to patients with vascular disease but also to healthy individuals, including athletes, particularly in exercise recovery.