Heel pain is the most common foot problem presenting
in our office. It is often attributed to plantar
fascitis. While most heel pain is responsive to
conservative therapy including orthotics, strapping,
physical therapy, NSAIDS, corticosteroid injections
and rest. 10% of patients remain with pain. These
patients are faced with the choice of having surgery
or living with pain.
An alternative to
surgery includes Shockwave Therapy which is commonly
used by Dr. Richard Nichols with high success rates.
But until now, this method has been costly and
requires anesthesia.
A new technology introduced by Dr. Richard
Nichols, EPAT, can be done in-office and is
painless, inexpensive and uses the same technology.
Swiss made EPAT is used extensively in Europe and
Canada. The mode of action during Pulse Therapy is
to stimulate chemical processes providing improved
blood circulation in the pain regions to promote
natural healing.
What does EPAT treat? Plantar fascitis,
Bursitis, Achilles Tendonitis, Heel Spurs, Hallux
Limitus, tendon attachments due to improper strain,
or due to degenerative process,various sports
injuries, painful trigger points.
What is the duration of the treatment and how
many treatments will I need? Treatment sessions
take approximately 5-10 minutes. Generally, 4
treatment sessions are necessary at weekly
intervals.
What are the expected results? The beneficial
effects of EPAT are often experienced after only 4
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. Over
80% of patients treated report to be pain free
and/or have significant pain reduction.
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 the EPAT device, and
extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed
its safety and efficacy. If performed by a qualified
Podiatrist, EPAT has virtually no risks or side
effects.
Is it covered by insurance? If you have
a Health Savings Account or Medical IRA, 100% of the
cost can be covered. However, in most situations,
health insurance plans do not provide coverage.
Benefits of EPAT:
- Patients are immediately
fully weight bearing.
- No incision - No risk
of infection at the treatment site - No scar
tissue formation.
- Patients are able to
return to work/normal activities with 24-48
hours, resuming strenuous activities after 4
weeks.
- Patients evaluated for
success at 12 weeks.
- Over 80% successful
outcomes (published data-Long-term pain relief)
- Non-invasive so
biomechanics are not affected - future treatment
options are not limited.
- Reduced conservative
care-ends the cycle-Reduced after care and
complication costs.
- Reduced cost from lost
work.
- Fast, safe and
effective.
- Does not require
anesthesia.
