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What is EPAT® Therapy?
Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT®) is a non-invasive treatment that uses acoustic pressure waves to target painful or injured soft tissues. The treatment is commonly used to support recovery from chronic tendon, fascia, and muscular conditions. EPAT® may also be referred to as radial pressure wave therapy or shockwave therapy.
During treatment, mechanical pressure waves are transmitted through the skin into the affected tissue. These pressure waves are intended to stimulate circulation, encourage tissue repair, and promote the body’s normal healing response without surgery or injections.
How EPAT® Works
EPAT® technology delivers controlled acoustic pulses into targeted tissues. These pulses create mechanical stimulation within the treatment area to help increase blood flow, improve tissue metabolism, and encourage cellular activity associated with healing.
The treatment may also assist in reducing chronic tissue irritation, improving mobility, and decreasing pain sensitivity in certain musculoskeletal conditions. Treatment protocols are customized based on the patient’s diagnosis, symptoms, and tolerance.
The API Difference
At Ascend Performance Institute, we believe effective treatment begins with identifying the source of dysfunction rather than strictly treating symptoms.
Pain and tissue irritation may develop from a combination of mechanical, neural, fascial, vascular, visceral, or movement-related factors. Our hands-on treatment approach is designed to restore optimal tissue mobility and function while supporting the body’s natural healing capacity.
Rather than relying on EPAT® as a stand-alone treatment, we integrate it into a comprehensive rehabilitation approach aimed at addressing the contributing factors that may have led to tissue injury, overload or chronic irritation. By combining skilled manual therapy with advanced technologies such as EPAT®, we strive to create an environment that supports more efficient healing and improved long-term function.
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Conditions Commonly Treated
• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendon pain
• Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow
• Rotator cuff tendon irritation
• Patellar tendon pain
• Chronic muscle tightness and trigger points
• Hip pain and bursitis-related conditions
• Hamstring tendinopathy
• Shin splints
• Chronic overuse injuries
Potential Benefits
• Non-surgical treatment approach
• No anesthesia required
• Minimal recovery time
• Short treatment sessions
• Improved tissue mobility and flexibility
• Reduction in pain symptoms
• Stimulation of the body’s natural healing response
• Ability to continue many normal daily activities during treatment
Individual responses to treatment vary depending on the condition being treated, overall health status, and duration of symptoms.
What to Expect During Treatment
At the beginning of the session, a conductive gel is applied to the treatment area. A handheld applicator is then used to deliver acoustic pressure waves into the tissue. Patients often describe the sensation as rhythmic tapping or pulsing pressure. Some temporary discomfort may occur, especially in chronically irritated tissues, but treatment intensity can generally be adjusted for patient comfort. Most sessions last approximately 10 to 15 minutes. A series of treatments is commonly recommended over several weeks.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities shortly after treatment. Temporary soreness, redness, or sensitivity in the treatment area may occur for a short period following the session. Patients may be advised to temporarily reduce high-impact activities while continuing their rehabilitation exercises and home program recommendations.
Risks and Possible Side Effects
EPAT® therapy is generally considered a low-risk treatment when performed appropriately. Possible temporary side effects may include:
• Mild soreness
• Redness
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Temporary increase in discomfort before improvement
Contraindications
EPAT® therapy may not be appropriate for all patients. Contraindications may include:
• Pregnancy
• Active infection in the treatment area
• Blood clotting disorders
• Use of certain anticoagulant medications
• Open wounds
• Certain vascular or nerve disorders
• Active cancer near the treatment area
• Recent corticosteroid injection in the treatment region
• Complete tendon rupture or severe tissue instability
Patients will undergo an evaluation to determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is EPAT® painful?
Most patients tolerate treatment well. Mild to moderate discomfort may occur during treatment, depending on tissue sensitivity.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of sessions varies depending on the diagnosis and patient response. Many conditions are treated with a series of visits over several weeks.
Is there downtime after treatment?
Most patients can continue normal daily activities with minimal interruption.