Shockwave Therapy for Foot Pain

What You Need To Know About Shockwave Therapy

Understanding how shockwave therapy works and the conditions it can treat.

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) is an effective and noninvasive, FDA-approved technique used to safely treat bone and soft tissue disorders around the foot and ankle. The proprietary technology is based on a unique set of pressure waves that stimulate the metabolism, enhance blood circulation, and accelerate the healing process. EPAT is sometimes referred to as ESWT or shock wave therapy.

The procedure is performed in office without any form of anesthesia required. EPAT works by sending sound wave pulses through the area of injured tissues. These pulses gradually increase throughout the treatment, causing harmless micro-trauma in the affected area and stimulating your body’s own healing reaction by enhancing blood circulation and stem cell formation. This aids in the regeneration of injured tissue, leading to accelerated healing and pain relief.

EPAT is proven to be effective in treating foot conditions including plantar fasciitis (heel spurs), Achilles tendonitis, tendonitis in the arch, posterior and anterior tibial tendonitis, peroneal tendonitis, plantar plate injuries, interdigital neuromas, and incorrectly healed fractured bones. It is also used for acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain that significantly impairs mobility or quality of life.

At times injuries become chronic and resistant to the body’s ability to heal. If you have persistent foot or ankle pain that has not responded to conservative care, schedule an evaluation to learn whether EPAT is right for you.

Treatment, Recovery, and Results

At the clinic, a coupling gel is applied to the treatment area to enhance effectiveness. The EPAT pressure waves are released through the applicator and moved over the area in a circular motion for maximum effect. No anesthesia is required, and the procedure is performed entirely in office.

Treatment sessions take approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on the disorder being treated. Generally, patients need at least three sessions scheduled at weekly intervals. Patients can bear weight and walk almost immediately, return to work and normal activities within 24 to 48 hours, and resume strenuous activities after about four weeks.

The non-invasive EPAT treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or bruising, which usually resolves within a few days. No bandages or casts are necessary. The safety and effectiveness of EPAT has not been determined in people with malignancies or DVT (deep vein thrombosis).

Some patients report immediate pain relief, although it can take up to four weeks for relief to begin. Most patients feel significantly better within a month, with the full benefits taking up to three months as new tissue is created. Bay Area Foot Care will work with you and your insurance to determine whether this procedure is covered.