WHAT Is SHOCK WAVE Therapy?

WHAT DISORDERS CAN BE TREATED?

Generally, acute or chronic muscle pain and/or tendon pain in neck, shoulder, elbow, back, foot and ankle. The most common conditions treated in the foot and ankle are plantar fasciitis/ heel pain, any type of tendonitis, muscle pain,  bone tenderness, and nerve pain.

WHAT ARE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS/COMPLICATIONS?

The non-invasive EPAT® treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases, patients may experience some minor discomfort which may continue for a few days. It is normal to have some residual pain after intense exercise or a full-day of work.

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED RESULTS?

The beneficial effects of Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT®) are often experienced after only 3 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. Most patients treated report to be pain-free and/or have significant pain reduction.  The data shows it is up to 84% effective in treating soft tissue disorders.

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 test have confirmed its safety and efficacy. If performed by a qualified caregiver Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT®) has virtually no risks or side effects.

HOW IS THE TREATMENT PERFORMED?

Coupling gel is applied to the treatment area of interest to enhance effectiveness. After these preparations, EPAT® pressure waves are released via the applicator moved over the area of interest in a circular motion.  Treatments are once weekly for 3-5 sessions.

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE TREATMENT AND HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?

Treatment sessions take approximately 5 minutes depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, 3-5 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AFTER THE TREATMENT/PROCEDURE?

You will receive post-treatment instructions from your doctor to follow during your recovery.

WHY CONSIDER NON-INVASIVE EPAT®?

EPAT® has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods (including surgery) and without the risks, complications and lengthy recovery time. EPAT® is performed in your doctor's office, does not require anesthesia, requires a minimal amount of time, patients can walk immediately afterwards, and return to normal activity on the day of the treatment.

BENEFITS OF NON-INVASIVE EPAT®

• FDA approved
• Patients are immediately fully weight bearing.
• Patients can return to work/normal activities on the same day as the procedure.
• Non-Surgical
• No incisions – No risk of infection at the treatment site – No scar tissue formation.
• Cost Effective, compared to surgery.
• Non-invasive so biomechanics are not affected – future treatment options are not limited.
• Reduced conservative care – ends the cycle – Reduced aftercare and complications costs.
• Bilateral (both feet) can be treated at the same time.
• Reduced cost from lost work.
• Fast, safe, and effective.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

In the past, procedures similar to the EPAT cost thousands of dollars when performed in the operating room due to facility requirements (size of the machine) and the need for an anesthesiologist. Today, this technology is available at a fraction of this cost and can be performed in the office without the need for local or general anesthesia.  While it is not covered by insurance directly, FSA and HSA funds can be used for the treatments.