Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) — When Your Foot Pain Won’t Quit
The fast answer: Shockwave therapy uses focused acoustic pressure waves to stimulate healing in chronic foot pain. FDA-cleared for plantar fasciitis with 70-85% success rates. No anesthesia, no incision, no down time. Each session: 10-15 minutes. Most patients need 3-6 sessions over 4-8 weeks.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
Pressure waves disrupt scar tissue, trigger neovascularization (new blood vessel growth), and stimulate cellular healing factors. Turns chronic disease back into acute (which the body CAN heal).
What Shockwave Treats Best
FDA-cleared/strong evidence: Chronic plantar fasciitis (70-85% success), insertional Achilles tendinopathy (65-80%), mid-substance Achilles (60-75%).
Strong off-label: Morton’s neuroma, peroneal/posterior tibial tendinopathy, hallux limitus, chronic heel spur pain.
What to Expect During a Session
10-15 minutes per area. Conductive gel applied. Hand piece moved over the area. Sensation: mild tapping progressing to deep pulse. 4-6/10 on pain scale, tolerable. No anesthesia. After: avoid ice 24 hours, avoid NSAIDs 1-2 weeks. No down time.
Treatment Course
3-6 sessions, 5-10 days apart. Improvement: some immediate, continued through weeks 2-12, maximal at 8-12 weeks AFTER completing sessions. Studies follow patients to 6-12 months — most maintain results.
Shockwave Cost in Michigan
Cash-pay: $200-$400 per session. 3-6 session course = $600-$2,400 total. Most insurance does NOT cover. HSA/FSA eligible. Package pricing available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does shockwave hurt?
Uncomfortable but tolerable, 4-6/10. Like deep, rapid tapping. We adjust intensity throughout.
How many sessions will I need?
3-6 typically. Plantar fasciitis: 3-5. Achilles: 4-6.
Will insurance cover it?
Most won’t. We help understand your specific plan before treatment.
How soon will I notice improvement?
Most patients feel 30-50% improvement within 1-2 sessions. Maximal benefit at 8-12 weeks.
Can I exercise after a session?
Yes — light activity is fine. Avoid maximum-intensity training for 24-48 hours.
Book Your Appointment
📞 Call (810) 206-1402 — Same-Week Appointments Available
Book Online →
Foot pain — Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?
If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of self-care, interfere with daily activity, or worsen suddenly, schedule a podiatrist evaluation. Early intervention typically shortens recovery and prevents chronic compensation patterns.
Will I need imaging or surgery?
Most foot pain cases resolve with conservative care—custom orthotics, supportive shoe changes, anti-inflammatory protocols, and targeted physical therapy. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or when structural pathology is suspected. Surgery is rarely the first option.
Does insurance cover foot pain treatment in Michigan?
Most major Michigan insurance plans (BCBS, BCN, Priority Health, HAP, Medicare, Medicaid HMOs, United, Aetna, Cigna) cover medically necessary podiatric care. Custom orthotics may have separate DME coverage rules. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your visit.
Our podiatrists treat the underlying cause, not just the symptom. Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township, Michigan offices.