Treating Your Foot & Ankle Pain with Shockwave Therapy

Non-Invasive, FDA Approved, Highly Effective Treatment for Your Acute Foot & Ankle Pain

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology®, or EPAT®, is a type of Shockwave therapy that delivers pulses of sound waves that cause microtrauma, or microscopic injury to the soft tissue and/or bone the therapy is being used to treat. This trauma stimulates inflammation which is critical to healing along with blood flow to the injured area. Damaged tissue then begins to regenerate and, eventually, heal.

EPAT is a non-invasive treatment that can
alleviate pain from many lower extremity
ailments.

What is EPAT® useful for?

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Shin Splints
• Heel Spurs
• Painful Trigger Points
• Joint Inflammatory Conditions
• Tendonitis (Tendon Injury/Inflammation)

What are the expected results?

The beneficial effects of Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT®) are often experienced after as few as 3 treatments. Some patients report immediate pain relief after the treatment, although it can take up to four weeks for pain relief to begin. The procedure may eliminate pain and restore full mobility, thus improving your quality of life. Over 80% of patients treated report to be pain free and/or have significant pain reduction. 

It is important to understand that not all injuries will respond to EPAT®. Some injuries are too advanced and other treatment methods may be necessary (including injections and surgery) for pain relief.

Is it safe?

Yes. This FDA-cleared technology was developed in Europe and is currently used around the globe. A wealth of medical experience, state-of-the-art engineering and optimal quality have been built into each EPAT® device, and extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed its safety and efficacy. 

If performed by a qualified caregiver EPAT® has virtually no risks or side effects.

What is the duration of the treatment and how many treatments will I need?

Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, 3 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.

What will happen after the treatment/procedure?

You will receive post-treatment instructions from your physician to follow during your recovery.

What if I have a special health condition?

The safety and effectiveness of the EPAT® procedure has not been determined on people with the following health conditions. Your doctor will provide you with information about how these and other conditions might affect the determination to perform the EPAT® procedures.

• Malignancies
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

How is the treatment performed?

Coupling gel is applied to the treatment area of interest to enhance effectiveness. After these preparations, EPAT® pressure waves are released via the applicator moved over the area of interest in a circular motion.

Why Consider Non-Invasive EPAT®?

EPAT® has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods (including

surgery) and without the risks, complications and lengthy recovery time. EPAT® is performed in our physician's

office/clinic, does not require anesthesia, requires a minimal amount of time, patients can bear weight (i.e. walk) immediately, and return to normal activity within a few days of the procedure.

Benefits of Non-Invasive EPAT®

• You can, usually, immediately bear your full weight on your feet rather than need recovery time post-surgery or otherwise.
• You can be treated on both lower extremities at the same time.
• No incision or related risk of infection at the treatment site.
• No chance of scar tissue.
• Return to normal activities within 24-48 hours and strenuous activities after as few as 4 weeks.
• Evaluation of treatment success as soon as 12 weeks.
• Over 80% successful outcome for longterm pain relief (data published and results retained in further study)
• Non-invasive treatment means biomechanics are not affected, allowing for other future treatment options.
• Cost effective, reduced cost from lack of lost work.
• Fast, safe & effective, without need for anesthesia.

What are the possible side effects/complications?

The non-invasive EPAT® treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases patients may experience some minor discomfort which may continue for a few days. It is normal to have some residual pain after intense exercise or a full-day of work.

Will my insurance cover EPAT® treatment?

In almost all cases, insurances will not cover EPAT®. The cost for 3-4 sessions is $500

Use our online scheduler to book your appointment. If you have a busy schedule during the week, we are open Saturdays by appointment only in our recently redone Plantation office. 

Click here to book your appointment and get yourself back to your best!