★ 4.9 Stars · 1,123+ Reviews · Board-Certified Michigan Podiatrists
EPAT Shockwave Therapy Michigan
FDA-Cleared for Plantar Fasciitis & Tendinopathy
EPAT (extracorporeal pulse activation technology) uses acoustic waves to stimulate tissue healing. 70-80% of chronic plantar fasciitis patients achieve lasting relief. No surgery, no downtime, done in our Michigan offices.
Board-Certified Podiatrist • Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI • View credentials
#1 Best EPAT Shockwave Therapy
in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Are you struggling with heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, or plantar fasciitis that won’t go away? At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we offer EPAT Shockwave Therapy—a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment designed to accelerate healing, restore mobility, and reduce chronic foot pain without surgery. Whether you live in Howell or Bloomfield Hills, our clinic provides advanced solutions to help you get back on your feet—pain-free.
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Find Best EPAT Shockwave at the Location Nearest You.
Howell
4330 E Grand River, Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Hills
43494 Woodward Ave # 208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
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EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) uses targeted pressure waves to stimulate blood circulation, enhance tissue regeneration, and reduce inflammation. It’s a safe and effective treatment for patients looking for lasting relief without downtime. Learn more about our plantar fasciitis and heel pain services.
When Is EPAT Shockwave Therapy Needed?
While most foot conditions respond well to conservative treatments like EPAT, surgery may be considered if there’s no improvement after several therapy sessions or in cases of severe tissue damage. Learn more about our custom orthotics services.
Our Surgical Approach
When surgery is needed, our podiatric surgeons ensure precision and comfort using minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and better outcomes.
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy
Non-invasive and painless
No downtime or anesthesia
Accelerated tissue healing
Improves circulation and reduces inflammation
Proven success for chronic foot and heel conditions
What to Expect – Before, During & After Surgery
Before treatment, a thorough evaluation is performed. The EPAT procedure itself is quick (around 10-15 minutes) and well-tolerated. Most patients resume normal activities immediately and report noticeable relief within a few sessions.
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist in Howell & Bloomfield Hills for EPAT Therapy
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist, we don’t just treat pain—we target the root cause. Dr. Tom Biernacki and our expert team combine advanced therapies like EPAT with personalized care to help you recover faster and live better. With two convenient locations in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, we’re here to keep your steps pain-free.
Book Your Podiatrist Visit Now
Struggling with Another Foot Problem? We Can Help.
Toenail Fungus Treatment (Oral or Laser)
Toenail Trimming
Orthotics Fitting
Ingrown Toenails
Infected Ingrown Toenails
Podiatrist pedicure
Medical pedicure
Trimming of Corns
Trimming of Calluses, and Treatment of Pressure Blisters
Diabetic Foot Care & Diabetic Foot Wounds
Podiatrist medical pedicure
Extra-Depth Shoes for Patients with Diabetes.
Prescription (Refills
Telehealth appointments.
Cold laser therapy (In the office)
Laser Treatment Neuropathy
Athletes Foot, Dry Skin, Eczema.
Foot & Ankle Ulcer Care
Infection and Abscess Care.
Staph Infections in the Toe or Foot Treatment
Treatment of Plantar Warts for Your Toes and Feet
Foot & Ankle Injections (Steroid or Natural Solutions.)
Management of Foot & Ankle Fractures (Walking Boots for broken toes or broken feet).
Heel Pain (Heel Spur or Plantar Fasciitis)
Custom Orthotics for children and adults (In the office).
Over the Counter Orthotics for children and adults.
Gout Treatment
Shockwave therapy (AKA ESWT or EPAT therapy)
ESWT
EPAT Therapy
Senior Toenail Cutting & Toenail Trimming Services.
EPAT Shockwave Therapy FAQs
Still have questions? We’ve got answers.
Typically, 3 to 5 sessions are recommended for optimal results.
Some insurance plans may not cover EPAT, but we offer affordable self-pay options.
Most patients experience only mild discomfort or pressure during treatment.
Can I return to work after EPAT?
Yes! There’s no downtime required with this treatment.
EPAT is FDA-cleared and safe for most patients. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant individuals or those with certain medical implants.
Relieve Pain and Restore Function with EPAT Shockwave Therapy
Don’t let chronic foot or ankle pain hold you back. EPAT Shockwave Therapy at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialist is a non-invasive, clinically proven treatment that stimulates healing, reduces pain, and helps restore mobility.
Our experienced podiatrists in Howell and Bloomfield Hills provide personalized therapy plans designed for your specific condition—whether it’s plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, or other chronic foot and ankle issues.
Schedule Your EPAT Session Now
Call Us Today
Shockwave Therapy Cost and Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for EPAT shockwave therapy varies by plan. Some Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Healthcare plans cover extracorporeal shockwave therapy when other conservative treatments have failed. Medicare coverage for shockwave therapy is limited and depends on the specific indication.
For patients whose insurance does not cover shockwave therapy, we offer competitive self-pay pricing and package rates for the typical 3 to 5 session treatment course. Many patients find that the cost of shockwave therapy is significantly less than surgery with a much faster recovery. View self-pay options.
Our team checks your specific insurance coverage for shockwave therapy before scheduling treatment. Call (810) 206-1402.
Watch: Shockwave Therapy Explained by Dr. Tom Biernacki
What Our Patients Say About Shockwave Therapy
After months of heel pain that would not go away, the shockwave therapy at Balance Foot and Ankle was a game changer. Three sessions in and my plantar fasciitis pain was significantly reduced. No surgery, no downtime.
— Karen W., Hartland
I was skeptical about shockwave therapy but Dr. Tom explained the science behind it and I decided to try it. Best decision I made. My chronic Achilles pain is finally manageable and I am back to walking my dogs daily.
— David S., Milford
Related Treatments & Resources
EPAT shockwave therapy works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Explore related services at Balance Foot & Ankle:
- MLS Laser Therapy — Often combined with EPAT for enhanced tissue healing
- Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Guide — The #1 condition we treat with shockwave therapy
- Custom 3D Orthotics — Prevent recurrence with biomechanical correction
- Achilles Tendinopathy — EPAT is highly effective for chronic Achilles pain
- Sports Medicine — Return-to-activity protocols for athletes
- Peripheral Neuropathy — Nerve pain treatment options
- Howell Office | Bloomfield Hills Office
- Insurance & Costs — Check your coverage for shockwave therapy
⚠️ Is EPAT shockwave therapy right for you?
- Heel or foot pain lasting more than 4–6 weeks despite rest
- Plantar fasciitis that hasn’t responded to stretching, orthotics, or injections
- Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy limiting your activity
- Desire for a non-surgical, no-downtime treatment option
- Athletes needing faster recovery from soft tissue injuries
Clinical Sources
- Gerdesmeyer L, Frey C, Vester J, et al. Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. Am J Sports Med. 2008;36(11):2100-2109. PubMed
- Wang CJ. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy in musculoskeletal disorders. J Orthop Surg Res. 2012;7:11. PubMed
- Rompe JD, Furia J, Weil L, Maffulli N. Shock wave therapy for chronic plantar fasciopathy. Br Med Bull. 2007;81-82:183-208. PubMed
- Speed CA. Extracorporeal shock-wave therapy in the management of chronic soft-tissue conditions. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2004;86(2):165-171. PubMed
Related Conditions
Ready to Get Relief?
Same-day appointments available in Howell & Bloomfield Hills, MI
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
Key takeaway: EPAT shockwave therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical options for chronic heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinitis that has not responded to 3-6 months of conservative treatment. Most patients experience significant improvement within 3-4 sessions.
What Conditions Does EPAT Shockwave Treat?
At Balance Foot & Ankle, we use EPAT shockwave therapy to treat a range of chronic musculoskeletal conditions in the foot and ankle. The technology is particularly effective for conditions where the body’s natural healing process has stalled, creating a chronic cycle of pain and dysfunction.
The most common conditions we treat with EPAT include chronic plantar fasciitis that has not responded to stretching, orthotics, and injections after 3-6 months. We also see excellent results for Achilles tendinopathy (both insertional and mid-substance), heel spurs with associated soft tissue inflammation, and chronic ankle pain from ligament injuries that failed to heal properly.
The Science Behind Shockwave Therapy
EPAT works through a process called mechanotransduction — converting mechanical energy (pressure waves) into biological healing responses at the cellular level. The acoustic waves delivered during treatment create controlled microtrauma in the damaged tissue, which triggers three important healing mechanisms.
First, the shockwaves stimulate neovascularization — the formation of new blood vessels in the treatment area. This increased blood supply delivers oxygen and nutrients essential for tissue repair. Second, the mechanical stimulation activates stem cells and growth factors that accelerate tissue regeneration. Third, EPAT disrupts pain nerve fibers through a process called hyperstimulation analgesia, providing both immediate and long-term pain relief.
Research published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research demonstrates that shockwave therapy increases collagen production by up to 300% in chronically damaged tendons and fascia. This explains why EPAT can restart the healing process even in tissues that have been damaged for years. Combined with MLS laser therapy, we can address both the inflammatory and regenerative components of chronic soft tissue injuries.
What to Expect During Your EPAT Session
Each EPAT session at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Dr. Tom applies a coupling gel to the treatment area and uses the EPAT handpiece to deliver precisely calibrated acoustic pressure waves to the damaged tissue. Most patients describe the sensation as a rapid tapping or pulsing — uncomfortable but tolerable without anesthesia.
The typical treatment protocol involves 3-5 weekly sessions depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition. There is no downtime after treatment — you can walk immediately and return to normal activities the same day. We recommend avoiding high-impact exercise for 24-48 hours after each session to allow the healing response to take full effect. Many patients notice improvement after the second session, with continued improvement for 8-12 weeks after completing the full treatment course.
Frequently Asked Questions About EPAT Shockwave Therapy
How many EPAT shockwave sessions are needed for plantar fasciitis?
Most patients require 3 to 5 treatment sessions spaced one week apart for optimal results. Each session lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Many patients experience significant pain relief after just 2 to 3 sessions, though full healing continues for several weeks after the final treatment.
Is EPAT shockwave therapy painful?
Most patients describe the sensation as mild discomfort rather than pain. The intensity is adjustable throughout each session to keep you comfortable. No anesthesia is required, and you can return to daily activities immediately after treatment — though we recommend avoiding high-impact exercise for 48 hours.
Does insurance cover EPAT shockwave therapy?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Many insurers now cover extracorporeal shockwave therapy when conservative treatments such as orthotics, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications have not provided adequate relief after 6 months. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment begins so you know your costs upfront.
What is the success rate of shockwave therapy for heel pain?
Clinical studies report success rates of 75 to 85 percent for chronic plantar fasciitis patients who have not responded to other conservative treatments. A 2015 meta-analysis in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research confirmed that extracorporeal shockwave therapy provides significant pain reduction and functional improvement compared to placebo.
Clinical References
- Sun J, et al. “Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is effective in treating chronic plantar fasciitis: a meta-analysis of RCTs.” Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research. 2020;15:54. PubMed
- Gerdesmeyer L, et al. “Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.” American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2008;36(11):2100-2109. PubMed
- Mani-Babu S, et al. “The effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in lower limb tendinopathy.” The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2015;43(3):752-761. PubMed
Looking for heel pain solutions? Visit our Complete Plantar Fasciitis Guide for a comprehensive overview of causes, home treatment, stretches, and advanced therapy options.
Start Your EPAT Shockwave Treatment
Non-surgical pain relief — most patients feel improvement in 3 sessions.
or call (810) 206-1402 · (248) 815-2221
“EPAT shockwave therapy was a game-changer for my plantar fasciitis. After three sessions I was walking without pain for the first time in over a year.”
— James W., EPAT Shockwave Patient
Your Expert Podiatrists
Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan
Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.
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Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
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Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists
Howell · (810) 206-1402 Bloomfield · (248) 335-0322Frequently Asked Questions
How many EPAT shockwave treatments do I need?
Most patients require 3-5 weekly sessions of 15-20 minutes each. About 70-80% of patients with chronic plantar fasciitis achieve significant improvement with shockwave therapy. Results continue improving for 4-6 weeks after the final session as the tissue heals.
Is EPAT shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans cover shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis when conservative treatment has failed. We check your specific benefits before treatment. Patients without coverage pay out-of-pocket, which we discuss upfront with transparent pricing.
EPAT Shockwave Therapy Explained
Watch Dr. Biernacki explain how EPAT extracorporeal pulse activation technology eliminates chronic heel pain, Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis without surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many EPAT shockwave therapy sessions are needed?
Most patients need 3–5 sessions spaced one week apart. Many notice significant pain relief after the second or third session, with continued improvement over 4–8 weeks as the body’s natural healing process completes.
Is EPAT shockwave therapy covered by insurance?
EPAT is typically covered when conservative treatments like physical therapy and orthotics have not provided relief. Our team verifies your specific benefits before your first appointment — call (810) 206-1402.
Are there any side effects of shockwave therapy?
EPAT is FDA-cleared and very well tolerated. Mild soreness or redness at the treatment site for 24–48 hours is normal. Most patients return to normal activity the same day with no downtime required.
Supporting Your Shockwave Recovery at Home
EPAT/shockwave therapy works best when paired with a disciplined home protocol. These four podiatrist-recommended tools accelerate the soft-tissue healing that shockwave stimulates.
Theragun Mini 2.0 Percussive Massager
Gentle percussion increases local circulation between EPAT sessions — use 3–5 minutes daily on the treated area.
Check Amazon Price →Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel (Topical NSAID)
For post-session tenderness — topical diclofenac is safer than daily oral ibuprofen.
Check Amazon Price →PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles
Unloads the inflamed fascia during the 4–6 week EPAT treatment window.
Check Amazon Price →Strassburg Sock Night Splint
Prevents overnight fascia contracture — critical adjunct for PF shockwave patients.
Check Amazon Price →Affiliate disclosure: Amazon links are affiliate links — we earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we actually prescribe to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle.
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