Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy is advanced, FDA-approved, non-invasive, treatment for those suffering from musculoskeletal pain virtually anywhere in the body. What is this advanced technology, and is it worth investigating? North Texas Foot and Ankle is confident that it can be life-changing for those suffering from foot and ankle pain.

How does it work?
EPAT® technology harnesses the gentle power of acoustic waves (sometimes referred to as EPAT® Shock Wave Therapy), targeting them on the source of the injury and pain. The strength of the acoustic waves is moderated based on the location and depth of the origin site. When the waves are pulsed to the targeted area, they stimulate blood flow, increasing circulation and accelerating the healing process. North Texas Foot and Ankle specialists perform the procedure, and treatment sessions typically last 5–10 minutes.

Who benefits from EPAT®?
Patients who are diagnosed with issues such as ligament injuries, muscle pain, foot pain, tendon injuries – including the Achilles heel, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, stress fractures, or delayed bone healing from fractures – are all excellent candidates for the healing powers of EPAT®. Those suffering from injuries that worsen with movement, who experience weakness, fatigue, interrupted sleep, muscle twitching, and cramping can all reap the benefits of EPAT®.

Is the treatment painful?
This non-invasive, non-surgical treatment is tolerated well by most patients, requiring no anesthesia. The treatment strength will vary based on the source of the pain. Some patients report mild discomfort and the sensation of pulsation for the duration of each treatment. Our patients also report that the discomfort resolves immediately upon completion of the procedure. Our physicians apply a smooth coupling gel to the skin which enhances the transmission of the acoustic waves, similar to that of an ultrasound gel. Please note that EPAT® is performed without the additional cost of ultrasound guidance.

Downtime
Patients can resume regular, weight-bearing activity immediately after a treatment session. We caution patients to ease into more demanding exercise and activities over four weeks to reduce the risk of further injury and to provide enough time to promote healing. Patient’s don’t need to stay off their feet (non-weight bearing). That factor is an advantage over invasive surgical procedures.

Is EPAT® Effective?
CuraMedix, the manufacturer of EPAT®, reports that 80% of the patients in clinical studies experienced significantly reduced or no pain at all. The feedback from patients at North Texas Foot and Ankle is equally impressive. The advanced technology used in EPAT® is helping patients return to daily activities without anesthesia, surgical procedures, or extended downtime. We’d say that’s a highly effective and appropriate treatment for many patients.

Contact us at 214-574-9255 to schedule an appointment to see if EPAT® is right for you. Get back into your everyday life quickly and more importantly, live pain-free!