Our El Paso Podiatrists Share How EPAT Therapy Offers an Advanced Solution for Many Types of Foot and Ankle Pain
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT) therapy, also known as shockwave therapy, was developed in Europe but is now used by podiatrists and other health care professionals around the world. Over 80% of patients treated at The Foot Institute using EPAT therapy report being pain-free and/or experiencing a significant pain reduction. If foot and ankle pain is keeping you from doing what you love, contact our El Paso podiatrists today to see if shockwave therapy might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
10 Foot and Ankle Conditions That Can Benefit From EPAT Therapy
A noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment, EPAT therapy uses specialized pressure waves to stimulate metabolism, improve circulation, and encourage damaged tissue to heal more quickly. Let’s look at some of the most common conditions we treat with EPAT therapy at our El Paso office locations.
1. Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy affects the large tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It's often caused by overuse or sudden increases in activity levels. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel. In most cases, the pain from Achilles tendinopathy worsens with activity.
Patients treated with EPAT therapy typically notice improved flexibility, greater range of motion, and decreased pain. They’re able to return to their favorite activities with minimal downtime.
2. Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles. This condition commonly affects the heel and the base of the big toe. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness—making walking and wearing shoes uncomfortable.
By delivering targeted energy waves to the affected area, EPAT therapy can reduce inflammation and promote the healing of the bursa. Many patients report immediate pain relief from a temporary block of pain signals transmitted by nerves, followed by continued improvement in their overall symptoms.
3. Chronic Tendinopathies
Chronic tendinopathies are persistent conditions in which tendons become irritated, inflamed, or degenerated. These conditions often result from overuse or improper biomechanics and can cause ongoing pain and reduced function.
By promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation, EPAT therapy can help improve flexibility, reduce pain, and enhance overall foot function. The treatment itself is nearly pain-free, with temporary mild discomfort similar to what you’d experience if your foot was snapped by a rubber band.
4. Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. While not all heel spurs cause symptoms, some can lead to significant heel pain—particularly when walking, running, or standing for long periods.
EPAT therapy can provide relief from heel spur pain without the need for surgical intervention by promoting healing and reducing inflammation in the surrounding tissues.
5. Neuromas
A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue that commonly occurs between the third and fourth toes. Often referred to as a pinched nerve, it can cause burning pain, numbness, and tingling sensations. Many people describe the feeling as similar to walking on a pebble or having a fold in their sock.
EPAT therapy offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments for neuromas. Improving blood circulation and promoting tissue regeneration can help alleviate the pressure on the affected nerve and allow you to walk comfortably once more.
6. Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. This condition can be caused by high-impact activities, ill-fitting shoes, or certain foot shapes. Patients often describe a burning or aching sensation in the affected area, which can worsen when standing, walking, or running.
By delivering focused shockwaves to the painful area, EPAT therapy stimulates the body's natural healing processes. This can lead to increased blood flow, reduced inflammation, and accelerated tissue repair without the need for surgery.
7. Muscle Strains
Muscle strains in the foot and ankle occur when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited mobility—which can hinder your ability to perform daily tasks or enjoy your favorite activities.
By stimulating blood flow and promoting tissue healing, EPAT therapy can help reduce recovery time and alleviate pain. This non-invasive approach allows you to get back on your feet faster, without the need for more aggressive and potentially costly interventions.
8. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. This inflammation causes sharp heel pain, particularly with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Many patients describe it as a stabbing sensation that can make walking a challenge.
EPAT therapy offers a non-invasive way to treat plantar fasciitis pain by stimulating blood flow and promoting healing in the affected area. Many patients report significant improvement after just a few sessions—even if night splints, orthotics, and other conservative treatments failed to provide the desired pain relief.
9. Shin Splints
Shin splints, medically referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome, cause pain along the inner edge of the shinbone. Shin splints are common among runners and other athletes who engage in high-impact activities. The pain can be sharp or throbbing and often worsens with exercise.
EPAT therapy offers a promising solution for shin splints by addressing the underlying inflammation and promoting tissue repair. Many athletes find that EPAT therapy allows them to return to their training regimen more quickly and with less discomfort.
10. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. In the foot, they commonly occur in the metatarsal bones. These injuries can cause pain that worsens with activity and requires extended periods of rest to heal properly.
By stimulating the body's natural healing processes, EPAT therapy can help accelerate bone repair and reduce recovery time. This means you can get back to your training or daily activities without putting your long-term foot health at risk.
Let Us Help You Explore Your Treatment Options
Led by Dr. Efren Buff De La Rosa, our team of El Paso podiatrists is committed to helping patients find effective solutions for their foot and ankle pain—avoiding surgery whenever possible. From custom orthotics to MLS laser therapy and EPAT therapy, we provide top-notch foot care services for the entire family. If your foot and ankle pain won’t go away, we can help you evaluate your treatment options and formulate a plan to get back to enjoying an active lifestyle.