Objective:

To determine whether early sequential application of Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) followed by Electric Tilt Table (ETT) training improves functional recovery and reduces symptomatic orthostatic hypotension in patients with ischemic stroke.

Approach:

• Study Design: A single-center, randomized controlled trial at Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital involving 104 participants with ischemic stroke within 3 months of onset.
• Intervention Groups: Participants will be randomly allocated to either the ETT training group or the sequential EECP - ETT training group, with both interventions delivered 5 days per week for 7 weeks.
• Outcome Measures: Primary outcome is overall neurological function at week 7 (NIHSS). Secondary outcomes include symptomatic OH incidence, motor function (FMA), balance (BBS), swallowing (MMASA), activities of daily living (BI), and hemodynamic parameters.

Key Findings:

• EECP may enhance tolerance to verticalization and mitigate symptomatic orthostatic hypotension during ETT training.
• The study aims to clarify the safety and efficacy of the sequential application of EECP and ETT in early stroke rehabilitation.

Interpretation:

The findings will provide insights into whether this integrative approach can promote functional recovery in ischemic stroke patients.

Limitations:

• Single-center study may limit generalizability.
• Exclusion criteria may restrict the applicability of findings to broader stroke populations.

Conclusion:

The study will evaluate the clinical feasibility, efficacy, and safety of combining EECP and ETT in early rehabilitation for ischemic stroke.

Sources:

• Chinese Clinical Trial Registry