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SHINE Foot and Ankle Center, PLLC

Proudly Part of Privia Health

EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy)

SHINE Foot and Ankle Center offers EPAT (it's an acronym for Extracorporeal Pulse Activated Technology). Sometimes referred to as ESWT.

But for those who don't prefer acronyms, it is otherwise known as "shockwave therapy". We know this sounds scary, but it's not. Read ahead…

EPAT

EPAT has been around for a long time! So this is NOT a new technology. Dr. John completed his Fellowship training (2008-2009) under an expert in this technology, Dr. Lowell Weil Jr. of the Weil Foot and Ankle Institute in Chicago, IL (Dr. Weil actually authored a book about this technology). During his Fellowship, Dr. John had the privilege of treating various professional athletes suffering from stubborn foot and ankle conditions. Based on his experience, EPAT is considered an essential therapy component at SHINE Foot and Ankle Center.

WHAT IS EPAT AND WHAT EXACTLY IS IT USED TO TREAT?

Common applications for Foot and Ankle conditions include:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Anterior tibial Tendonitis
  • Peroneal Tendonitis
  • Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
  • Post-Injury Scar tissue
  • Neuroma

Patients who have exhausted standard conservative treatments (Rest, Ice, Heat, Stretching exercises, Physical therapy, Steroid Injections, Orthotics, Boots, Braces, etc) typically seek this out as a method of avoiding Foot or Ankle surgery. EPAT is best applied to help patients who may be feeling that surgery is their only remaining option.

Dr. John has used this in post-surgery rehab situations to help advance the healing process.

EPAT

SO HOW DOES EPAT WORK?

EPAT is an innovative, non-invasive, In-Office treatment, without the need for anesthesia. It is an evidence-based treatment that gets to the root of your pain, facilitating healing and accelerating your recovery. EPAT improves your body's regenerative natural healing potential, rather than further damaging an area that has degenerated because of poor blood flow, tissue injury, overuse or weakness.

The EPAT machine generates pulses of therapeutic pressure waves, or "shockwaves." Those pulses are directed through a hand-held applicator, which distributes the shockwaves deep into your injured tissues.

EPAT

In your body, these waves stimulate a cascade of natural physiological and biochemical reactions, which serve to "kick start" stagnated healing processes and accelerate tissue regeneration. The beneficial effects of this cascade include:

  • Reduced tissue inflammation
  • Increased tissue metabolism
  • Enhanced circulation
  • Breaks up scar tissue
  • Increased release of growth factors

In certain situations, this therapy can be combined with other specialized treatments (regenerative medicine injection) in order to augment the effects.

Dr. John will determine whether this is necessary and appropriate on a case by case basis.

WHAT TO EXPECT?

EPAT sessions are performed In-Office. Each session typically takes approximately 7-10 minutes. This is performed once weekly, for 4 total sessions.

This therapy does not require any anesthesia, medications, or injections. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during the session, but the vast majority of patients tolerate the therapy session very well.

There is no downtime after each session. Patient's can be up and walking, and usually experience some degree of numbness of the area immediately after.

It is important to understand that the results of EPAT are cumulative, meaning that each treatment session builds on the ones that came before. Results vary, but many patients feel noticeable better not long after the first session, and the vast majority will experience a significant degree of improvement by the end of the treatment course. We advise patients that the Total physiological healing effect will take approximately 6 to 8 weeks after the final session. Dr. John will recommend a follow up visit to check in with you about the status of your results.

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WHAT IS THE COST OF EPAT?

EPAT is not covered by any government or private insurance. The total cost of treatment is $600. This may seem pricey, but in comparison to the emotional, financial and time costs related to surgery, this is a far better option.

IS EPAT A SAFE TREATMENT OPTION?

There really are no harmful side effects to EPAT-most people can undergo the procedure very safely. This option also does not "burn any bridges" to other treatment options.

However, there are a few people we would not recommend EPAT for. It is not recommended if you are pregnant, have certain circulatory issues such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or a malignancy.

IN SUMMARY - EPAT BENEFITS

  • EPAT is Non-Invasive
  • No Anesthesia Required
  • No Risk of Infection
  • No Scarring
  • No Downtime
  • Cost Effective
  • Faster, Easier Healing Compared to Surgery

THINKING ABOUT IT?

If you are considering EPAT for your condition, and have questions, we encourage you to contact our office by calling (512) 399-5711 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shine John, DPM at SHINE Foot and Ankle Center.

EPAT Patient Brochure

EPAT FAQs