The word “extracorporeal” comes from two latin roots: extra (outside) and corp (body). So, Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) is noninvasive because it happens completely outside of the body. No needles and no surgery required!
Shockwave Therapy (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 experience a temporary reduction in pain right after their appointment and can walk out of the office and resume their normal activities.
Shockwave Therapy (EPAT®️) has almost no risks or side effects. Each session lasts about 5–10 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Typically, 3–5 sessions are needed, spaced a week apart.
Many patients start feeling the benefits of EPAT after just 3 treatments. Some notice immediate pain relief, though it can take up to four weeks for the full effect. The procedure can eliminate pain and restore full mobility, greatly improving your quality of life. Over 80% of patients report being pain-free or having significant pain reduction after treatment.
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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 $125 for one session or $300 for a package of 3.
