Electric shocks to your private parts (yes, we’re talking to the men out there!) may seem a little intense, but according to a new study conducted by researchers at Odense University Hospital in Odense, Denmark, shockwave therapy may help improve erectile dysfunction (ED) in some men.
At Affiliated Urologists, we understand ED can cause a number of negative psychological effects in addition to the one unfortunate physical side effect. The wellbeing of every patient is our top priority, which is why we provide a number of treatment options that have been proven safe and successful for men with ED. While additional research is needed before a therapy like this can be implemented for urology care throughout the nation, the study does shed light on the future of ED treatment.
Erectile dysfunction is usually a result of the narrowing of blood vessels in the penis, making it difficult for men to maintain an erection. As we mentioned previously there are a number of treatment options for this condition. At Affiliated Urologists, we provide the following: oral medications, self-injections or penis suppositories, testosterone replacement therapy, penis pumps, penile implants (penile prosthesis) or blood vessel surgery.
The study included 112 men suffering from ED who were unable to have intercourse without the aid of medication. Fifty-one of the men received 5 low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (LI-ESWT) treatments and 54 received 5 placebo treatments over the span of 5 weeks. The men in the placebo group received active treatment after 10 weeks.
The patient participants were assessed 5, 12 and 24 weeks after receiving treatment and were asked to complete the International Index Erectile Function (IIEF-15) questionnaire. The results are as follows:
5-week follow-up:
- 57% of men in the LI-ESWT group reported they were able to obtain an erection and have sexual intercourse without the use of medication after receiving the shockwave therapy.
- 9% of men in the placebo group reported they were able to obtain an erection and have sexual intercourse without the use of medication.
24-week follow-up:
- 19% of men in the LI-ESWT group were able to have intercourse without medication.
- 23% of men in the active placebo group were able to have intercourse without medication.
Given the results of the study, the effect of LI-ESWT for ED still remains unclear, although the research is promising. We will continue to monitor any new information on this exploratory therapy. If you are suffering from ED, call the specialists at Affiliated Urologists today! Our skilled physicians will design a customized treatment plan to address all of your ED concerns.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
