Impotence with Shock Wave Therapy: What Is It and How Does It Work?
What is Shock Wave Therapy?
Shock wave therapy is a medical procedure using low-intensity acoustic waves. Its use in the treatment of impotence is increasing.
- How does it work?
- Acoustic waves are applied to the penis.
- It provides regeneration of tissues by increasing blood flow.
- Triggers the formation of new blood vessels.
- Areas of Use:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Chronic pain
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Advantages:
- No surgical intervention is required.
- The risk of infection is low.
- The recovery period is short.
With all these features, shock wave therapy stands out as a promising method for many people with impotence problems.
What is Impotence?
Impotence is the inability of a man to achieve a sufficient erection during sexual intercourse. This condition is often referred to as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Observed Symptoms
- Difficulty achieving an erection
- Difficulty maintaining an erection
- Decreased sexual desire
Causes
The causes of erectile dysfunction are the following:
- Physical Factors:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Heart diseases
- Psychological Factors:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Stress
Diagnosis Process
The diagnostic process includes the following steps:
- Medical History: A comprehensive health history is assessed.
- Physical Examination: The genital organs are examined for any abnormalities.
- Laboratory Tests: Hormonal and blood values are analysed.
This can lead to anxiety in men and negatively affect quality of life.
Common Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Physical Causes
- Vascular Diseases: Circulatory problems, such as atherosclerosis, can prevent adequate blood flow to the penis.
- Neurological Disorders: Nervous system disorders such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease.
- Hormone Irregularities: Testosterone deficiency or irregularities.
- Drug Side Effects: Some medicines can cause erectile dysfunction.
Psychological Causes
- Stress: Stress and anxiety in daily life.
- Depression: Psychological disorders can affect sexual function.
- Relationship Problems: Problems with the partner.
Basic Principles of Shock Wave Therapy
The basic principles of shock wave therapy are to provide treatment with high-energy sound waves applied to the body. This method supports cell regeneration and blood flow. Other basic principles of shock wave therapy are as follows:
- Energy Intensity: The energy level to be applied to the tissues is determined.
- Application Frequency: The frequency of treatment is planned.
- Target Region: The specific area to be treated is determined.
- Treatment Duration: The duration of each session is calculated.
- Security: Potential side effects are taken into account.
Effect of Shock Wave Therapy on Erectile Dysfunction
Shock wave therapy is used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The process works as follows:
- Physiological changes: Shock waves create microtraumas to the penile tissue, increasing blood flow.
- New vessel formation: These traumas stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.
- Tissue healing: Increased blood flow accelerates tissue healing.
- Clinical outcomes: Clinical studies have shown that patients achieve noticeable improvement in erection quality after treatment.
This treatment is characterised by being non-invasive and not requiring surgical intervention.
How is Shock Wave Therapy Applied?
Shock wave therapy is an innovative method that has been used in recent years to treat male impotence (erectile dysfunction). The following steps explain how the treatment process works and is applied:
- Patient Assessment:
- The patient's medical history and current condition are reviewed.
- Necessary tests and examinations are performed.
- Preparation of Treatment Plan:
- A treatment plan is created according to the patient's specific condition.
- The frequency and duration of application is determined.
- Shock Wave Application:
- The treatment device sends low-intensity shock waves into the penis.
- Each session lasts approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Monitoring and Evaluation:
- The effectiveness of treatment is assessed at regular intervals.
- If necessary, additional sessions are planned.
Treatment Process and Sessions
Shock Wave Therapy is a non-invasive method of treating impotence. The treatment process usually includes several sessions:
- Patient Assessment: Before the first session, the general health status of the patient is evaluated.
- Treatment Plan: A personalised treatment plan is created.
- Shock Wave Application: Low-energy shock waves are sent to the penis through the special device.
- Session Frequency: Usually 1-2 sessions are performed per week.
- Duration: Each session lasts approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Monitoring and Evaluation: The patient is monitored for effects during and after treatment.
The success rate of the treatment process is high and side effects are minimal.
Side Effects and Safety of Shock Wave Therapy
Shock wave therapy is generally considered a safe method, but it may have some side effects. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. Potential side effects include:
- Pain and Discomfort: Slight pain or discomfort may be felt at the treatment site.
- Skin Irritation: Redness or swelling of the skin may occur after treatment.
- Haematoma: Rarely, minor bruising may occur in the treatment area.
- Sensitivity After Treatment: There may be temporary tenderness in the affected area.
Heavy exercise or sexual activity should be avoided after treatment.
Treatment Results and Success Rates
Shock wave therapy offers positive results supported by clinical studies. Especially in different types of erectile dysfunction, varying success rates have been observed.
- Hafif ve orta dereceli iktidarsızlık yaşayan hastalarda başarı oranı %70-80 arasında değişmektedir.
- Şiddetli iktidarsızlık sorunları yaşayan hastalarda ise başarı oranı %50-60 aralığındadır.
Potential side effects after treatment are usually minimal.
- Mild pain
- Short-term skin irritation
- Temporary swelling
According to research, treatment results often show long-term improvement.
Advantages of Shock Wave Therapy
- No Surgical Intervention Required: This treatment is non-invasive and does not require surgical intervention.
- Fast and Easy Application: Sessions are usually short and patients can quickly return to their daily lives.
- Minimal Risk of Side Effects: Side effects are usually mild and of short duration.
- A Natural Solution: It does not require the use of medication, which prevents side effects related to medication.
- Effective Results: In related studies, favourable results have been obtained in many patients.
- Published Clinical Data: The treatment is supported by numerous clinical trials.
Comparison with Alternative Treatment Methods
Shock wave therapy offers some advantages and disadvantages compared to other methods in the treatment of impotence.
- Medical Treatment: Medicines have an immediate effect, but side effects and limited long-term effects.
- Surgical Intervention: Provides permanent solution, but requires high risk and long recovery period.
- Vacuum Devices: It offers low risk and practicality of use, but user compatibility may decrease over time.
- Psychotherapy: It may be effective on impotence of mental origin, but the process may take time.
Who is Shock Wave Therapy Suitable for?
Shock wave therapy stands out as a suitable treatment method for certain patient groups. This treatment is particularly recommended for the following conditions:
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): It is frequently used in men with erectile dysfunction problems. It is effective by increasing blood flow in the veins.
- Highlighted Situations: Patients suffering from chronic diseases that adversely affect vascular health such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension.
- Psychogenic ED: Individuals who experience impotence due to psychological factors such as stress and anxiety.
- Patients who do not respond to medication: Provides an effective alternative for patients who do not respond to PDE5 inhibitors (e.g. Viagra, Cialis).
It should be emphasised that patients should have a detailed assessment with their doctor before shock wave therapy.
What to do after treatment
The things to be considered after shock wave treatment are as follows:
- Rest It is important to rest for a while after treatment.
- Medicines Use: Medicines recommended by the doctor should be used regularly.
- Follow-up Appointments: Attend control appointments on time.
- Exercise: Light exercise can be started, but excessive physical activity should be avoided.
- Nutrition: A healthy and balanced diet should be observed.
- Smoking and alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided.
- Stress Management: Stress-reducing activities should be supported.
- Sexual Activity: Sexual activity should not be initiated without the doctor's approval.
As long as the patient follows these recommendations meticulously, he/she can get the highest efficiency from the treatment process.
Doctor Selection and Clinics
The choice of doctor and clinic is critical for shock wave therapy. Factors to be considered are as follows:
- Expertise and Experience: The doctor who will apply the treatment should be a specialist in the urological field and should be experienced in shock wave therapy.
- Equipment and Technology: Whether the clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
- References and Comments: Feedback from previous patients and doctor's references.
- Licences and Certificates: To check whether the doctor and the clinic have the necessary licences and certificates.
These factors can directly influence the success of treatment.
Patients' Experiences and Reviews
Patients report various experiences and reviews after treatment of impotence with Shock Wave Therapy.
- Treatment Process: Most patients report that the treatment process is short and painless.
- Results: Some patients reported seeing positive results within a few weeks, while others had to wait longer.
- Side Effects: Most patients reported experiencing minimal side effects after treatment.
- Satisfaction: Many patients report a marked improvement in their sexual health after treatment.
"I feel younger and more energetic after the treatment." - Patient Comments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is shock wave therapy?
- It is a method used in the treatment of impotence that increases blood flow with low intensity sound waves.
- Who is suitable for this treatment?
- Men who experience erection problems and are resistant to other treatments.
- How long does the treatment last?
- It is typically applied in 10-15 minute sessions and is usually completed between 6-12 sessions.
- Are there side effects?
- There are usually no side effects, but mild discomfort or bruising may occur.
- Is it permanent?
- The effects vary from person to person, although some patients experience long-term benefits.
- Does the insurance cover it?
- The insurance coverage for this treatment depends on the country and the insurance plan.