1970s Heart Therapy Shows Promise for Reversing Early Alzheimer's Decline
A randomized trial involving 190 patients with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's found that external counterpulsation (ECP), a non-invasive heart treatment developed in the 1970s, significantly improved cognitive function. The therapy uses inflatable cuffs on the legs to enhance blood flow to the brain. Results showed that 84% of patients improved during treatment, with benefits persisting six months after cessation. While the device is FDA-approved for heart conditions, it lacks US approval for dementia, though it recently received certification in the EU.