Radial shockwave therapy (also called EPAT) is a non-invasive regenerative treatment that delivers mechanical pressure waves into injured soft tissue. These waves help stimulate circulation, influence inflammatory signaling, improve tissue metabolism, and support recovery from overuse injuries and chronic pain conditions.

Radial shockwave therapy is commonly used for:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain

• Achilles tendinopathy

• Patellar tendon pain

• Hamstring and calf strains

• IT band syndrome

• Hip and gluteal tendinopathy

• Shin splints

• Muscle trigger points and fascial tightness

It is frequently used in early-stage or more superficial soft-tissue injuries or as part of a progressive regenerative treatment plan.

A common treatment approach is one session per week for approximately 6 weeks, although the plan may be adjusted depending on the injury location, severity, chronicity, and overall treatment strategy.

Radial shockwave therapy is often included within a multimodal regenerative approach, which may also involve focused shockwave therapy, EMTT, photobiomodulation (laser), rehabilitation exercises, and biomechanical correction.

Treatment typically ranges from $150–$300+ per session, depending on:

• Number of areas treated

• Combination of regenerative modalities used

• Complexity of the injury

• Rehabilitation and performance plan

Many patients can continue modified running or exercise as long as activity is not significantly increasing pain or delaying healing.

Training adjustments may include:

• Reduced mileage or intensity

• Surface or footwear changes

• Strength and mobility work

• Progressive loading strategies

For runners, treatment may be paired with a running analysis to identify biomechanical stressors and guide a safer return to full training.

Yes. It is common to experience temporary fluctuations in pain or symptoms during a shockwave therapy treatment program.

As injured tissue begins to respond to mechanical stimulation and progressive loading, some patients notice periods of improvement followed by short-term soreness or sensitivity. This is a normal part of the regenerative process.

Many patients feel improvement after the first session to the first few weeks, while others notice more gradual progress. After completing treatment, the body may continue remodeling and regenerating tissue for weeks to months.

Maintaining appropriate activity modification, rehabilitation exercises, and load management helps support optimal recovery.

Treatment may cause temporary discomfort during application, especially over sensitive or chronically irritated tissue. This sensation is usually brief and well tolerated, and intensity can be adjusted.

Many patients notice progressive symptom improvement over the treatment series.

Radial shockwave therapy is generally considered safe when performed by trained clinicians as part of a structured treatment plan.

It may not be recommended in certain situations such as:

• Pregnancy unless the treatment area is not close to the abdomen, pelvis, or lower back—ex. plantar fasciitis

• Active infection

• Blood clotting disorders

• Certain neurological or vascular conditions

• Over open growth plates

A clinical evaluation helps determine if treatment is appropriate.

Some patients feel improvement after the first session or within a few weeks. Symptom fluctuations are normal during treatment, and tissue healing continues for weeks to months after the final session.