WHAT IS EPAT AND HOW CAN IT HELP MY FOOT PAIN?

Have you had foot pain for weeks or even months without improvement? Tried stretching, injections and even physical therapy without any improvements? EPAT might be for you.

EPAT stands for Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology.  EPAT is a form of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, which is an evidence-based, emerging, proven treatment option for patients suffering from both acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries. 

EPAT uses acoustic pressure waves to safely increase metabolism and blood flow, stimulating or enhancing healing of the injury.  The microtrauma induced, triggers a cascade of inflammatory factors such as cytokines and chemokines that help regenerate the damaged tissue.  These inflammatory factors are essential for healing and are present at high levels in acute injuries, but diminish or cease to exist over time in chronic injuries.  Think of EPAT as a way of pushing the reset button on healing.

EPAT is a great treatment option for many  musculoskeletal injuries, including: Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, Posterior Tibial Tendonitis, Anterior Tibial Tendonitis, Plantar Plate Injuries, Peroneal Tendonitis, Interdigital Neuromas.

Before EPAT treatment, patients should discontinue all anti inflammatories at least 1 week prior to the procedure.  Which includes Ibuprofen, Aleve and all prescription anti inflammatories. Since EPAT produces an inflammatory response, it is important to avoid anti-inflammatory medications, since they will inhibit this inflammatory response. Tylenol is allowed since it is not an anti inflammatory.

If you are tired of being in pain and not able to participate in activities you love, EPAT could be right for you.