Efficacy of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) on autonomic function in ischemic stroke patients: A randomized controlled trial

This randomized controlled trial will investigate the efficacy of Enhanced External Counter pulsation (EECP) on autonomic functions in patients with ischemic stroke. The study aims to determine whether EECP, when combined with conventional rehabilitation, will improve autonomic nervous system regulation, which is commonly impaired following stroke. Patients with ischemic stroke will be randomly allocated into experimental and control groups. The experimental group will receive EECP therapy in addition to conventional physiotherapy, while the control group will receive conventional physiotherapy alone. Autonomic function will be assessed using heart rate variability parameters, including time-domain and frequency-domain measures, both before and after the intervention period. The outcomes will be analyzed to identify changes in autonomic balance. It is expected that the EECP group will demonstrate significant improvements in parasympathetic activity and a reduction in sympathetic dominance compared to the control group. These changes will suggest enhanced cerebral perfusion, enhance cardiovascular stability and overall rehabilitation outcomes.