Extracoporeal Pulse Activation Therapy (EPAT)
Another treatment method used for the treatment of soft tissue and bone disorders around the foot and ankle is known as Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy (EPAT). This method is proven to be effective in treating foot conditions, such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis (heel spurs), chronic muscle pain, and incorrectly-healed fractured bones.
The EPAT test is commonly used all over the world with state-of-the-art equipment that has been evaluated and approved by the FDA.
Treatment
EPAT treatment can be used on calcified, or fibrotic, tissue and works by sending sound wave pulses into the affected area. These pulses cause what’s known as microtrauma, or tiny, controlled injuries in the soft tissue or bone that provoke a healing reaction in your body with improved blood circulation.
Typically, EPAT treatment lasts around 15 minutes and should be repeated once weekly for a total of three weeks.
Recovery & Results
EPAT is a non-invasive procedure, which means there will be little downtime and swift recovery. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort, redness around the treatment area, or bruising. These issues usually resolve themselves within a few days.
Most patients feel significantly better within a month of treatment, but the full benefits of EPAT may take up to three months for some. Immediate improvement after the procedure has been reported on occasion.
83% of patients treated with EPAT have expressed a reduction of at least five scale points, when asked to use a 0-10 pain scale. Although rare, a small amount of patients progress on to invasive surgical procedures. There are no complications or side effects from EPAT and no conditions have worsened as a reulst of the treatment.
EPAT vs. ESWT Treatment
Alternatively, ESWT treatment uses similar sound waves to treat the foot condition, but uses older technology and should not be confused with EPAT. Those undergoing ESWT will need anesthesia for the procedure, while the EPAT’s modern-day technology allows treatment without anesthesia.
Since February of 2000, the Weil Foot & Ankle Institute has successfully performed sound wave treatments, participated in three FDA studies on EPAT, and also completed multiple clinical studies. These studies have shown a nearly 90% success rate to treat plantar fasciitis and other tendon problems involving the foot and ankle.
Dr. Lowell Weil Jr. served as the President of the International Society for Medical Shockwave Treatment from 2009 to 2010, which led to Weil Foot & Ankle Institute hosting the 10th Annual ISMST Scientific Congress held in June 2010.
Cost Of EPAT Treatment
Most insurance companies cover the costs associated with EPAT treatment, though costs can vary, depending on the severity of your individual case.
Learn More About How Our Podiatrist In Chicago, IL, & EPAT Can Help You With EPAT Treatment
Please call our podiatry office in Chicago, IL, at 847-393-4276 if you have any additional questions about Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy (EPAT), and we will be happy to provide you with all the information that you may need. Come experience Weil Foot & Ankle Institute! You will see our Chicago podiatrist offers the best podiatry care in In Arlington Heights, Bannockburn, Chicago, Des Plaines, Glenview, Lemont, Libertyville, Oak Park, Roselle, & Tinley Park, Illinois (IL).
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