As an athlete, nothing is more frustrating than being sidelined by chronic foot & ankle injuries. And when rest, ice, and stretching aren’t enough, it might feel like your options are limited.
The good news? An advanced, non-invasive technology called EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) is helping athletes heal faster and get back to their sport without surgery. In this blog, New England Podiatry breaks down the benefits, particularly for the competitors among us!
What is EPAT (Shockwave Therapy)?
EPAT is a treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to target injured soft tissues. This isn’t an electrical shock; rather, it’s a form of sound energy that stimulates the body’s own natural healing processes.
By delivering these pulses to the painful area, EPAT helps to:
- Enhance blood circulation
- Accelerate tissue repair and cell growth
- Reduce pain and inflammation
It’s a non-surgical method designed to jump-start healing in stubborn, chronic injuries that have stopped responding to traditional care.
Your Questions About EPAT, Answered
What disorders can be treated?
EPAT is highly effective for common overuse injuries that plague athletes. It’s an excellent solution for chronic conditions, including:
- Plantar Fasciitis / Heel Pain
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Other forms of tendon pain in the foot and ankle
What is the treatment like?
The procedure is simple and performed right in our office.
- We apply a coupling gel to your skin over the injured area, then deliver the pressure waves using a handheld applicator.
- Sessions are quick, typically lasting only 5-10 minutes. Most treatment plans involve 3-5 sessions, scheduled about a week apart.
- Best of all, there is no downtime, allowing you to continue with your daily activities immediately.
What are the expected results?
Many athletes experience significant pain relief after just a few treatments.
- The beneficial effects of EPAT are often cumulative, meaning you may continue to see improvement weeks after your final session.
- Success rates are high, with many studies reporting over 80% of patients treated experiencing pain relief and improved function.
It’s a proven method for getting athletes back on their feet!
Are there any side effects?
The side effects of this non-invasive treatment are minimal.
- You might experience some minor discomfort or redness in the treated area, which typically resolves quickly.
- There are none of no risks associated with injections or surgery.
Questions? Concerns? Give us a call. Together, we’ll determine if EPAT is right for you.
At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment.