Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (Shockwave)

Pre-Care Instructions
Please avoid taking any anti-inflammatory medications for 48 hours prior to shockwave sessions, as this can decrease the efficacy of the treatment. Taking any blood thinners may increase the risk of bruising caused by the shockwave treatment.

Post-Care Instructions
We recommend avoiding extremely strenuous physical activity for 48 hours after shockwave treatment is administered.

Contraindications
Shockwave treatments must be separated by at least 30 days from any corticosteroid injections, either before or after shockwave is administered. Shockwave therapy CANNOT be performed on anyone who has active cancer, hemophilia, varicose veins, is pregnant or plans to become pregnant throughout the course of treatment. Please inform your provider if you have any of these conditions so you can formulate an appropriate treatment plan.

Scheduling
Shockwave Therapy is most effective when performed repeatedly in the same area to stimulate blood circulation and accelerate the healing process.  Treatments may be performed no more than once every three days, and no less than once every two weeks. Your provider will decide how many sessions are needed according to your treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EPAT?
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT), sometimes referred to as ESWT or shock wave therapy, is the most advanced and highly effective non-invasive treatment method cleared by the FDA. This proprietary technology is based on a unique set of pressure waves that stimulate the metabolism, enhance blood circulation and accelerate the healing process.

What disorders can be treated?
Generally, acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain and/or pain that significantly impairs mobility or quality of life including:

• Foot and ankle
• Lower extremity
• Upper extremity
• Back and chest
• Shoulder
• Neck
• Myofascial trigger points

What are the expected results?
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 cleared 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 each EPAT device, and extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed its safety and efficacy.

What is the duration of the treatment and how many treatments will I need?
Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes depending on the disorder to be treated. Generally, at least 3 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.

What are the possible side effects or complications?
The non-invasive EPAT treatment has virtually no risks or side effects. In some cases, patients may experience some minor discomfort which may continue for a few days. It is normal to have some residual pain after intense exercise or a full day of work.

What if I have a special health condition?
The safety and effectiveness of the EPAT procedure has not been determined on people with the following health conditions.  Your doctor will provide you with information about how these and other conditions might affect the determination to perform the EPAT procedures.

• Malignancies
• DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
• Pregnancy
• Active Cancer
• Hemophilia

How is the treatment performed?
Coupling gel is applied to the treatment area of interest to enhance effectiveness. After these preparations, EPAT pressure waves are released via the applicator moved over the area of interest in a circular motion.

Why consider non-invasive EPAT?
EPAT has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than that of traditional treatment methods (including surgery) and without the risks, complications and lengthy recovery time.

EPAT is:

• Performed in your physician’s office/ clinic
• Does not require anesthesia
• Requires a minimal amount of time

Patients can:

• Bear weight (i.e. walk) immediately
• Return to work/normal activities within 24-48 hours
• Resume strenuous activities after 4 weeks

Interested in finding out more EPAT and if this treatment could help you? Reach out to us at 720-598-0805.