Impact of Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) on Cardiac Force Index

Impact of Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) on Cardiac Force Index

Regular exercise can prevent cardiovascular disease, but there is also a risk of sudden cardiac death. Exercise-related sudden death often occurs unconsciously and there is no relevant monitoring mechanism. The patent of the Cardiac Force Index (CFI), invented by Professor Chu, is a method to detect the state of cardiac motion. Recent studies have confirmed Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) can increase cardiopulmonary fitness and maximal oxygen consumption. Our aim is to investigate the differences and effects of CFI between two groups with and without 4 weeks of EECP intervention, therefore, to find out the relationship between CFI and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max).

Methods: A pre and post-test control group was designed. A total of 53 military students (33 males and 20 females) were recruited and divided into intervention and control groups. A 2000-meter running and maximum oxygen consumption tests were performed pre and post-test. The intervention group was conducted a 4 week (3 times per week/30 minutes) EECP intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

• can walk.

Exclusion Criteria:

• disabilities.