Although most cases of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis are able to be cured conservatively require advanced treatments. In the past with chronic and acute foot and ankle pain, the lithotripter, a special machine that generates shockwaves, was used. However due to more convenience, EPAT is currently used to treat these conditions as an alternative. A podiatrist directs low frequency sound waves, also known as shock waves, at the injured area through a hand held applicator. The shock waves penetrate deep into the soft tissues, stimulating blood flow, accelerating the body’s natural healing process.
This procedure is noninvasive and does not require the use of anesthesia. Typically patients should receive four treatments over a course of four weeks. Pain relief can be variable with three treatments that can yield pain relief for some patients, but for other patients relief can be experienced after the first treatment.