Patient Profile:A 37-year-old non-diabetic male runner presented with left dorsal foot pain of one month’s duration. He described the pain as a dull ache rated 3–5/10, believed to be an overuse injury from running. Despite icing and stretching, the pain persisted and interfered with activity.
Initial Evaluation:
Physical exam showed tenderness over the dorsal foot. X-rays were negative for fracture, but ultrasound revealed marrow edema, indicating a stress fracture not visible on traditional imaging. This allowed for an early, accurate diagnosis without the need for costly MRI.
Treatment Plan:
- Use of carbon fiber plate and shoe inserts to offload the foot
- Discontinuation of high-impact activities
- Focal EPAT (Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology) treatment targeting the affected area to stimulate healing
Outcome: After just one EPAT session, the patient reported a 50% reduction in pain. Although walking barefoot on the beach caused a temporary flare, the pain was much milder (2/10) compared to previous episodes (6–8/10). Early bone callus formation was palpated, signaling healing progress. The patient is expected to require 3–4 total treatments for full recovery.
Patient Testimonial:
“After months of unexplained foot pain and X-rays that showed nothing, ultrasound at Bayshore Podiatry Center diagnosed my stress fracture quickly. One EPAT treatment cut my pain in half, and I can already feel healing starting. I’m so relieved to be on the fast track back to running—without needing an MRI!”
