Brooks Foot & Ankle Associates
Medicine and Surgery of the Foot and Ankle
Paul D. Brooks, DPM, P.A.
2201 E Nine Mile Rd
Pensacola, FL 32514
ph: 850-479-6250
fax: 850-479-6247
info
EPAT
EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology)
Heel pain is the most common foot problem presenting in our office. It is often attributed to plantar fascitis. While most heel pain is responsive to conservative therapy including orthotics, strapping, physical therapy, NSAIDS, corticosteroid injections and rest, 10% of patients remain with pain. These patients are faced with the choice of having surgery or living with pain.
An alternative to surgery includes Shockwave Therapy. Ossatron Shockwave Therapy is commonly used by Dr. Brooks with high success rates. But until now, this method has been costly and requires anesthesia.
A new technology introduced to the panhandle by Dr. Brooks, EPAT, is painless, inexpensive and uses the same technology.
Swiss made EPAT is used extensively in Europe and Canada. The mode of action during Pulse Therapy is to stimulate chemical processes providing improved blood circluation in the pain regions to promote natural healing.
- What does EPAT treat?
Plantar fascitis
Bursitis ( Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa. The major bursae are located adjacent to the tendons near the large joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees.)
Tibialis anterior syndrome
Achilles tendonitis
Achillodynia
Heel spurs
Hallux limitus
Various chronic enthesiopathies (painful irritation of tendon attachments due to overexertion and improper strain, or due to a degenerative process)
Various sports injuries
Painful trigger points(acute and chronic painful neck,back, shoulder and etc. due to chronically shortened and thickened muscle tissue)- What is the duration of the treament and how many treatments will I need?
Treatment sessions take approximately 5-10 minutes. Generally, 4 treatment sessions are necessary at weekly intervals.
- What are the expected results?
The beneficial effects of EPAT are often experienced after only 4 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 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 approved 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.
If performed by a qualified medical professional, EPAT has virtually no risks or side effects.- Is it covered by Insurance?
If you have a Health Savings Account or Medical IRA, 100% of the cost can be covered. However, in most situations, health insurance plans do not provide coverage.
Benefits of EPAT
• Patients are immediately fully weight bearing.
• Bilateral patients can be treated at the same time.
• No incision–No risk of infection at the treatment site–No scar tissue formation.
• Patients are able to return to work/normal activities within 24-48 hours, resuming strenuous activities after 4 weeks.
• Patients evaluated for success at 12 weeks.
• Over 80% successful outcomes [Published Data–Long-term pain relief (Results retained)].
• Non-invasive so biomechanics are not affected–future treatment options are not limited.
• Cost Effective.
• Reduced conservative care–ends the cycle– Reduced after care and complications costs.
• Reduced cost from lost work.
• Fast, safe and effective.
• Does not require anesthesia.
Paul D. Brooks, DPM, P.A.
2201 E Nine Mile Rd
Pensacola, FL 32514
ph: 850-479-6250
fax: 850-479-6247
info
