For some, achieving “happy feet” is more than just a reason to dance. It means they are no longer dealing with chronic or acute foot pain. Fortunately, if you are suffering from any number of podiatric disorders or injuries, there is an advanced, highly effective treatment that may be able to provide relief. When conventional treatment methods such as medication, corticosteroid and trigger point injections have failed to provide relief for your foot pain, ask your podiatrist if Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology is right for you. Here’s more about this highly effective, non-invasive treatment option.
EPAT Therapy
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology — EPAT, also known as ESWT or Electric Shock Wave Therapy – is an FDA-approved, evidence-based treatment method for acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries, and has been proven especially effective in treating foot pain. It does this by using a proprietary technology that is based on a distinct set of pressure waves; these waves stimulate and enhance blood circulation and accelerate the healing process by improving your body’s regenerative potential. Tissue that is damaged will eventually heal, relieving pain and allowing you to move freely again.
Conditions Treated by EPAT
Podiatrists recommend EPAT therapy for patients with acute podiatric injuries to facilitate faster healing and provide pain relief. EPAT therapy is also recommended for patients with chronic pain due to past injuries that have failed to respond to other pain treatment methods. Here are just some of the podiatric conditions that can benefit from EPAT therapy:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles pain
- Tendon and/or tendon insertion pain
- Chronic heel pain
- Morton’s neuroma
- Myofascial trigger points
EPAT Therapy: what to expect
Undergoing EPAT therapy is similar to undergoing an ultrasound. Your technician applies a gel to allow an EPAT applicator to move easily over the affected area; he then moves the applicator in a circular motion to deliver acoustic pressure waves that increase and improve your blood flow to stimulate healing. Expect your EPAT therapy session to last no more than 10 minutes. The more EPAT treatments you have, the sooner can you return to the activities that you love.
Benefits of EPAT
EPAT is a no-risk treatment method, meaning it is non-invasive, requires no anesthetic, and there is no downtime, scarring or risk of infection. When administered by a qualified caregiver, there are no side effects and many patients report pain relief almost immediately after their first treatment, although it is recommended that a series of treatments take place to ensure maximum effect. In fact, more than 80 percent of EPAT patients who have completed treatment report they are free of pain, or that their pain has reduced significantly.
EPAT Therapy in Cincinnati
No one should have to live with chronic foot pain or a podiatric condition. Fortunately, if you live in the greater Cincinnati area, there is Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care. With 18 convenient locations across southwest Ohio, our practitioners offer expert, compassionate to people of all ages. Have you exhausted your options to relieve your foot pain? Then EPAT therapy may be the answer you are looking for. Request an appointment online at the location that is convenient for you. We offer flexible hours and quicker appointments. Our goal is to get you back on your feet again.
