Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Circulate Therapy – EECP Heart Health Program

 

General Information

 

Q: What is EECP therapy?
A: EECP (Enhanced External Counterpulsation) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved therapy for patients with coronary artery disease, angina, or heart failure. It uses inflatable cuffs on the legs, synchronized with your heartbeat, to improve circulation and increase blood flow to the heart.

 

Q: Who can benefit from EECP?
A: EECP is most often recommended for patients with:

• Angina that persists despite medications

• Coronary artery disease or heart failure

• Fatigue, shortness of breath, or limited exercise ability

• Those seeking a non-surgical option instead of stents or bypass

 

Pacemakers & Pre-Existing Conditions

 

Q: Can I do EECP therapy if I have a pacemaker?
A: Yes. Most patients with pacemakers or implantable defibrillators (ICDs) can safely undergo EECP. The cuffs inflate and deflate based on your ECG, and our staff carefully monitors your heart rhythm during each session. In rare cases, certain device settings may need adjustment, which we coordinate with your cardiologist.

 

Q: Is EECP safe if I’ve had stents or bypass surgery?
A: Yes. Many patients who have undergone stent placement or bypass surgery still benefit from EECP. It’s especially helpful for those whose symptoms have returned or who are not candidates for additional procedures.

 

Q: Can I do EECP with pre-existing conditions?
A: Most patients with chronic conditions—such as diabetes, hypertension, or kidney disease—are still eligible. However, EECP may not be recommended if you have:

• Severe aortic insufficiency

• Severe peripheral vascular disease

• Recent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Our team reviews your medical history in detail to ensure safety before starting treatment.

 

Treatment Experience

 

Q: What happens during a session?
A: You’ll lie on a comfortable treatment table while cuffs are wrapped around your calves, thighs, and hips. These inflate and deflate in sync with your heartbeat, creating a gentle “wave” of blood flow back to the heart. Sessions last about one hour.

 

Q: How many sessions will I need?
A: A full course is 35 one-hour sessions, usually over 7 weeks (5 days per week). Some patients may benefit from booster sessions in the future.

 

Q: Is it painful?
A: No. Most patients describe it as a firm but comfortable squeezing sensation. Mild leg soreness may occur during the first week, but it typically improves quickly.

 

Safety & Effectiveness

 

Q: How effective is EECP?
A: Clinical studies show EECP can:

• Reduce angina episodes

• Improve exercise tolerance

• Enhance overall quality of life
  Benefits often last 2–3 years after treatment.

 

Q: Is EECP safe?
A: Yes. EECP is FDA-approved, non-invasive, and has been proven safe through decades of research. Sessions are closely monitored by trained staff.

 

Insurance & Costs

 

Q: Does insurance cover EECP?
A: Yes. Medicare and most major insurance plans cover EECP for patients who meet eligibility criteria.

 

Q: What if I don’t have insurance?
A: We offer affordable self-pay options and financing. Our team can walk you through payment choices before starting therapy.

 

Practical Questions

 

Q: Can I drive after treatment?
A: Yes. EECP requires no sedation, so you can drive yourself to and from sessions.

 

Q: What should I wear?
A: Comfortable pants or leggings work best. Avoid heavy or stiff fabrics like jeans.

 

Q: Where are you located?
A: Circulate Therapy is conveniently located at [insert address]. Free parking and a welcoming, comfortable clinic environment are available.

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EECP® and Exercise Equivalency

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 During EECP, the cuffs inflate and deflate in rhythm with your heartbeat, creating an “assisted circulation” effect.​

 

 This is sometimes called “passive exercise”, because your heart and blood vessels experience hemodynamic changes similar to aerobic exercise — without you moving.

 

Studies have estimated that 1 hour of EECP therapy provides cardiovascular benefits roughly equivalent to walking 3–5 miles at a brisk pace.

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• The exact “miles” comparison varies by patient age, heart condition, and therapy response.

• Unlike walking or jogging, EECP specifically increases coronary perfusion pressure (blood flow to the heart itself), which is something regular exercise can’t always achieve in patients with blocked arteries.

• That’s why cardiologists sometimes describe EECP as “a workout for your heart, without the workout.”

 

Getting Started

 

Q: How do I know if EECP is right for me?
A: Schedule a consultation with our team. We’ll review your symptoms, medical history, and device information (if you have a pacemaker or defibrillator), then confirm eligibility.

 

Q: How do I start treatment?
A: Call us at [phone number] or fill out our online request form. We’ll verify insurance, answer your questions, and get your first session scheduled.