How Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) Works: A Revolutionary Approach to Pain Relief
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT), a form of Shockwave Therapy, has emerged as a notable method for alleviating pain and promoting healing in various musculoskeletal conditions. In this blog, we'll explore how this non-invasive treatment uses acoustic waves, offering relief from pain.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
If you've experienced an injury to a tendon, elbow, or hamstring, your healthcare provider may suggest a Shockwave Therapy. Although its name may sound intimidating, this therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to activate the body’s natural healing response by targeting the specific area of pain or injury, encouraging your body to heal more efficiently.
The therapy is used for conditions like:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain
- Tendon injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Muscle strains
- Non-unions of bone
- Neuromas
- Trigger points
How Does EPAT Work?
EPAT technology uses high-energy acoustic waves, which are applied to the affected area using a handheld device. These waves interact with the tissues, stimulating blood flow and accelerating the body’s repair mechanisms.
What to Expect During a Session:
- Duration: Most sessions last around 15 minutes, depending on the area being treated, and your doctor may recommend at least four sessions for the best results.
- Sensation: Some patients describe the sensation as mild tapping or pulsing. While it might feel unusual, it’s generally well-tolerated.
- Non-Invasive: There are no needles or incisions involved. Using a handheld device, your podiatrist will direct low-frequency sound waves to the injured area to stimulate the metabolic process, improve blood flow, and activate the body’s natural healing abilities. Most patients can return to their daily activities immediately after treatment.
Because of its non-invasive approach, EPAT offers a convenient solution for those seeking pain relief without the challenges of surgery or prolonged recovery periods.
Why Is Shockwave EPAT a Game-Changer in Pain Management?
- Non-Surgical and Drug-Free: EPAT offers relief without the risks associated with surgeries or the side effects of long-term medication use.
- Minimal Side Effects: The procedure is gentle on the body, with mild side effects such as tenderness or redness usually resolving quickly. Although complications from shockwave therapy are rare, it’s important for your healthcare provider to evaluate the patient’s injury and overall health before starting treatment.
- Effective for Acute and Chronic Conditions: Whether you’ve recently injured yourself or have been living with persistent pain, EPAT can be a solution for both scenarios.
- Comparing EPAT to Traditional Treatments:
- Unlike surgery, EPAT has minimal to no downtime, and doesn’t require weeks or months of recovery.
- Unlike pain medications, it doesn’t carry the risk of dependency or systemic side effects.
- It’s suitable for various patients, including athletes who want to get back in the game and non-athletes who simply want to move comfortably again.
Explore Your Treatment Options
Whether you’re dealing with an injury or chronic discomfort, Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) may be the key to reclaiming your mobility and quality of life. If you’re wondering whether EPAT is the right option for you, reach out to our clinic at Central Massachusetts Podiatry in Massachusetts. Our highly skilled team of podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon lead by Dr. Donald E. Pelto, can evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Make an appointment today.
