FAQs: EPAT for Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is no laughing matter, and if you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, you may be desperately seeking relief from the daily pain associated with this condition.

If at-home treatments like stretching and orthotics aren’t successful in alleviating your pain, the podiatrists at Triad Foot Center offer state-of-the-art, non-invasive treatment technology to zap heel pain. This treatment is called Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT®).

Like any medical treatment, our podiatrists receive an abundance of questions regarding EPAT®, so we’ve put together the most frequently asked questions to help educate our patients.

What is EPAT®?

Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT®) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive technology that uses acoustic pressure waves to stimulate cell metabolism, enhance blood flow and accelerate the healing process of the plant fascia ligament.

Is It Safe?

Yes. EPAT® is FDA-approved. There have also been extensive clinical studies and tests that have validated its safety and effectivity.

Why should I choose EPAT® treatment?

EPAT® is the most successful treatment option for plantar fasciitis when compared to traditional treatment methods. There is minimal risk of complications and little to no required recovery time. The treatment is administered in the office, so hospitalization or anesthesia is not required.

Patients are also able to walk immediately after the treatment and can return to normal activities within 24-48 hours. Strenuous activity can resume after 4 weeks.

How is EPAT® treatment performed?

A gel is applied before an applicator that emanates EPAT® pressure waves over the plantar fascia area. There is minimal discomfort.

What are the benefits of EPAT® treatment?

EPAT® treatment has many benefits, including:

• No downtime
• Non-invasive treatment
• No scarring
• No anesthesia needed
• High patient satisfaction
• Cost-effective
• Less aftercare and complications

What are the risks of EPAT® treatment?

EPAT® treatment has many more benefits than there are risks. However, some patients experience minor redness or tingling following treatment.

How long does an EPAT® treatment take?

This treatment typically takes 15 minutes in our offices and requires three sessions to begin experiencing significant relief. No hospitalization is required.

What kind of results can I expect?

Everyone has a unique experience, but some report immediate pain relief while others report it taking up to four weeks. More than 80 percent of patients who have undergone EPAT® treatment have reported being pain-free, and/or have a significant reduction in pain following treatments.

Is EPAT® treatment covered by insurance?

Every insurance company and policy is different, which is why we recommend that patients check with their insurance prior to undergoing treatment.

 

For more information about EPAT® treatment or to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Triad Foot Center, please click here to request an appointment or call one of our three convenient office locations in the Piedmont Triad.

Disclaimer: The information and other content provided in our blogs, videos, or in any other content or linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. For a full disclaimer, please click here.