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A new form of therapy known as enhanced external counter pulsation (EECP) therapy claims to improve the circulatory system, lower blood pressure, relieve stable angina and enhance overall body functions.
The treatment has not, however, been approved by district health boards in New Zealand, with DHB spokesman Antony Byers saying that ‘They decided not to approve EECP as the evidence they expected to see was not there’.
Despite this, many are stepping forward and paying $300 per session to use the treatment. Athletes such as Ali Williams, Shane Cameron and Lisa Tamati have used the treatment and commented on its ability to improve conditioning and help with injury recovery. Many others have noted lower blood pressure and reversal of cardiovascular disease.
EECT works by having a patient lie on a bed with inflatable cuffs attached to their legs, ankles, buttocks and arms. Electrodes attached to the chest are used to monitor the heart, and during the heart’s rest phases the cuffs inflate, moving blood upwards from the legs and helping it circulate around the body.
The Primary Heart Clinic in Auckland that offers the therapy says that the EECP beds cost $250,000 each, hence the $300 per session charge.
Should the DHB and health insurance providers fund this service as a complimentary therapy? Or does more research need to be done? Share your thoughts with us.
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I completed this therapy and totally endorse it i am Maori and,i was diagnosed with congestive heart failure,and suffering from severe Pulminory Edema,where by the left side of your heart is failing which is to do with the term ejection fraction,where it is not able to service your entire system with oxygen,and your lung fills with blood ,my life expectancy was 9 months,after studying research on this effective treatment for months i found after 3 treatments the edema dissappeared,and after my full course i felt like i was well on my way back to a normal life,6 months later i was now eligable to have bariatric sygery that i had been turned down earlier.Bsfore the EECP Treatment i weighed in at 150 kilos,after treatment id lost 15 kilos ,attributed to this therapy and my own diet and exercise regime,My weight gain was due to the fact i was carrying a genetical cancer called Paraganglioma ,and had done so for 8 yrs so they estimate.I can not praise this treatment enough, but only wish it was more accesable to our Maori elders and community,not just a treatment for the rich or fortunate,like a machine for each tribe at least set up and run by acharitable entity ,to many elders i have seen die earlier than they have needed too.Right now my weight is at a 106 kilos,and my blood pressure is good and i am doing well.