Monday, February 27, 2012

Finally, a Way to End Chronic Heel Pain.

A New Treatment Option for Chronic Heel Pain



Achilles Tendonitis














Plantar Faciitis











Chronic heel pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendonitis is a very common complaint in our office. It is a problem that can affect virtually anyone. From experienced athletes to the average weekend warrior it can sideline any patient. Plantar fasciitis tends to cause heel pain on the bottom of the foot in the heel and arch area, whereas Achilles tendonitis tends to cause pain at the back of the heel.

However , both issues are generally caused by the over-use of a tight fascia or tendon which leads to micro-tears at the insertion of both structures. Subsequently, this causes inflammation which leads to pain and immobility.

A typical patient will feel pain worse when they first wake up and take their first step out of bed, or after resting and then standing. Most patients tend to feel pain worse as the day goes on and may notice some swelling or redness in the heel area. The problem is not necessarily symmetrical, it can affect only one heel.

In most cases, both problems generally respond well to conservative treatment i.e stretching, icing, changing into appropriate shoe-gear, OTC anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics and cortisone injections. Unfortunately, there are cases where conservative treatments fail leaving both the patient and physician frustrated because they believe they are out of options... until now.

Extracorpeal Pulse Activation Treatment, or EPAT, is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment for chronic heel pain. This FDA approved technology is based on a unique set of pressure waves that stimulate the metabolism, enhance blood circulation and accelerate the healing process. Damaged tissue gradually regenerates and eventually heals. This is a non-invasive, office-based procedure that has been shown to be incredibly effective in the treatment of heel pain.

The benefits of the EPAT system are generally experienced after only three treatments. However, some patients have reported feeling relief as quickly their first EPAT session! The purpose of this procedure is to eliminate pain and restore mobility, thus improving your quality of life. Statistics report that 80% of patients treated with the EPAT system are symptom free and/or have significant pain reduction.

EPAT is a FDA approved medical device. It is performed in our office, by our doctors and has virtually no risks or side effects. Treatment sessions last approximately 15 minutes. Three treatment session are necessary, within weekly intervals. Benefits of this procedure are that patients can be immediately weight bearing after the procedure. There is no need for anesthesia. Because it is non-invasive, there is no incision and therefore no risk for infection. Patients are able to return to work or their normal daily activities within the next 24/48 hours, and can resume strenuous activities after 4 weeks.

EPAT is a fast, safe and effective treatment option for patients with chronic heel pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendonitis. For more information on this technology visit www.curamedix.com, or make an appointment in our office at 8 School Street, Bethel CT for a consultation. (For an appointment with Dr. Jennifer Tauber or Dr. Michael Fein please call 203-743-7083 or visit our website www.bethelpodiatry.com for office hours and new patient forms).

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