The word “extracorporeal” comes from two latin roots: extra (outside) and corp (body). So, Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Treatment (EPAT) is noninvasive because it happens completely outside of the body. No needles and no surgery required!
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT®) is a form of ESWT (Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy) which is an evidence based, emerging, proven treatment option for patients suffering from acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries. EPAT® uses acoustic pressure waves to safely increase metabolism and blood flow, stimulating / enhancing healing of the injury. The microtrauma induced, triggers a cascade of inflammatory factors (such as cytokines and chemokines) that help regenerate the damaged tissues. These inflammatory factors are essential for healing and are present at high levels in acute injuries, but diminish or cease to exist over time in chronic injuries. Think of EPAT® as a way of pushing the “reset” button on healing.
Most patients will leave the office immediately with a temporary reduction in pain. Patients are able to walk out of the office and resume normal weight bearing activities.
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) has virtually no risks or side effects. Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, 3-5 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.
The beneficial effects of 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 can eliminate pain and restore full mobility, thus improving your quality of life. More than 80% of patients treated report to be pain free or have significant pain reduction.
We recommend EPAT® for acute injuries as part of first line therapy, since it will allow for a faster recovery so that you can return to the activities you love. It is also recommended for patients coming to us with chronic injuries who have failed to respond to other therapies. EPAT® allows or patients to avoid major downtime during treatment.
We recommend patients discontinue all anti-inflammatories at least 1 week prior to the procedure. This includes ibuprofen (Advil), Aleve and all prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Since EPAT® produces an inflammatory response, it is important to avoid anti-inflammatory medications since they will inhibit this inflammatory response. Tylenol is allowed since it is an analgesic and not an anti-inflammatory.
EPAT® is not recommended for patients on blood thinners, those with malignancies, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and those who are pregnant.
EPAT® is an elective pay modality and is not covered by insurance. Our current rate is $90 for one session or $240 for a package of 3.
