External Counterpulsation Could Aid Alzheimer's Patients
New research suggests this circulation therapy may improve cognitive function in adults with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Alzheimer’s
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Would you trust a non-invasive physical therapy for Alzheimer's over traditional pharmaceutical treatment options?
A clinical trial indicates that external counterpulsation therapy may improve cognitive function in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. The treatment, which uses compressed air to enhance blood circulation, showed sustained benefits for many participants six months after the trial ended.
Why it matters
Improving blood flow to the brain is a potential strategy for managing dementia symptoms, as reduced cerebral circulation is common in these conditions. This study offers preliminary evidence that a non-invasive physical therapy could support cognitive health in affected patients.
This clinical trial involved 190 patients with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's, showing an average five-point gain on standard cognitive scales. While 78% improved during the study, the findings remain preliminary as regulatory approval is pending.
The players
Renew Research
A developer of medical devices seeking FDA approval for Alzheimer's therapies.
US Food and Drug Administration
The federal agency responsible for evaluating the safety and efficacy of medical devices.
The details
External counterpulsation involves using squeezable cuffs on the lower body to deliver 35 sessions, typically three to five times per week. The mechanism is designed to propel blood back toward the heart, potentially increasing blood flow to the brain. Researchers hypothesize this counteracts the 50 percent reduction in blood flow often seen in dementia brains, allowing for sustained cognitive function.
Timeline
1970s: Refinement of the external counterpulsation technology began.
Six months: Duration of the clinical trial treatment period.
Six months after trial: Duration observed for sustained cognitive improvements.
Last year: Company submitted correspondence to the FDA regarding approval status.
Health Landscape
The study sits within a broader effort to explore non-pharmacological interventions for dementia that target vascular health. It follows established paths in arterial function research that contrast with current U.S. regulatory standards for Alzheimer's treatments.
Patients and caregivers should be aware that while this device is certified for use in the European Union, it is not yet authorized for Alzheimer's treatment in the U.S. These findings are worth discussing with a neurologist to understand how vascular health relates to cognitive symptoms.
The takeaway
This treatment targets the link between circulatory health and cognitive decline, with 75 percent of trial participants sustaining gains six months post-treatment. Patients should monitor official FDA announcements regarding device availability and discuss cognitive changes with a physician.
Further reading
For more on managing symptoms and emerging research, visit our Alzheimer’s section.
Live Poll
Would you trust a non-invasive physical therapy for Alzheimer's over traditional pharmaceutical treatment options?
