What is EPAT? Is it worth the cost?

The EPAT Machine (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) also better known as Shockwavetreatment,  is one of the most advanced and effective  non-invasive therapies approved for the FDA. There are many useful applications of EPAT, for the foot & ankle it ithas been particularly useful for the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. It can also be used in other cases of tendonitis, bursitis and Morton’s Neuroma.

Yes it is an out-of-pocket expense due to no reimbursement for this technology by insurances but most people are willing to pay for an effective and noninvasive option. If it is effective, patients  arepotentially avoiding a surgical procedure that may not be necessary if EPAT therapy works for them. With the current climate of health insurance, most patients have very high deductibles and therefore they often essentially become non-insured patients. In addition, many patients who suffer from chronic pain will pay for great cutting-edge care.

In addition, this technology is safe with virtually no side effects. Many people wish to avoid cortisone injections as there is risk involved for injury with these injections, especially in cases of Achilles tendonitis where steroid injections are usually contraindicated due to risk of tendon rupture.

“My experience is that when you explain the time commitment of multiple PT visits and multiple follow-up office visits, plus the expense in terms of PT, office visits and prescription co-pays, cost of night splints or pneumatic boots, pain of a cortisone injection, loss of mobility related to a pneumatic boot, not to mention potential deductibles, as compared to the cost of 3, 4, 5 or even 6 EPAT treatments, most people see the value” says Dr. Norm Wortzmon

My recommendation, therefore, is consider this effective noninvasive option in cases of poorly responding Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis pain. Treatments are spaced one week apart and within 3-4 treatments you may find you are virtually pain free!