EPAT-Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology
Heel pain is the most common foot problem presenting in our office. It is often attributed to plantar fascitis. While most heel pain is responsive to conservative therapy including orthotics, strapping, physical therapy, NSAIDS, corticosteroid injections and rest, 10% of patients remain with pain. These patients are faced with the choice of having surgery or living with pain.
An alternative to surgery includes Shockwave Therapy. Ossatron Shockwave Therapy is commonly used by Dr. Blaakman with high success rates. But until now, this method has been costly and requires anesthesia.
A new technology introduced upstate by Dr. Blaakman, EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) is painless, inexpensive and uses the same technology.
Swiss made EPAT is used extensively in Europe and Canada. The mode of action during Pulse Therapy is to stimulate chemical processes providing improved blood circulation in the pain regions to promote natural healing.
WHAT DOES EPAT TREAT?
- Plantar fascitis
- Bursitis ( Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa. The major bursae are located adjacent to the tendons near the large joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.)
- Tibialis anterior syndrome
- Achilles tendonitis
- Achillodynia
- Heel spurs
- Hallux limitus
- Various chronic enthesiopathies (painful irritation of tendon attachments due to overexertion and improper strain, or due to a degenerative process)
- Various sports injuries
- Painful trigger points(acute and chronic painful neck, back, shoulder and etc. due to chronically shortened and thickened muscle tissue)
WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE TREATMENT AND HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes. Generally, 4 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.
IS IT COVERED BY INSURANCE?
If you have a Health Savings Account or Medical IRA, 100% of the cost can be covered. However, in most situations, health insurance plans do not provide coverage.
WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED RESULTS?
The beneficial effects of EPAT are often experienced after only 4 treatments. Some patients report immediate pain relief after the treatment, although it can take up to four weeks for pain relief to begin. The procedure eliminates pain and restores full mobility, thus improving your quality of life. Over 80% of patients treated report to be pain free and/or have significant pain reduction.
IS IT SAFE?
Yes. This FDA approved technology was developed in Europe and is currently used around the globe. A wealth of medical experience, state-of-the-art engineering and optimal quality have been built into each EPAT device, and extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed its safety and efficacy.