Shockwave therapy: How it treats chronic prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, and Peyronie's disease

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment option in the field of urology for various conditions that affect men’s health, including chronic prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, and Peyronie's disease.

This article provides an expert overview of how shockwave therapy is used to manage these conditions, addressing key questions and concerns.

What is shockwave therapy?

In the context of urology, shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-intensity acoustic sound waves to target tissues within the prostate, penis, and other relevant areas. These sound waves stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and also encourage the body’s natural healing and tissue regeneration processes.

How is shockwave therapy administered for chronic prostatitis, erectile dysfunction and Peyronie’s disease?

Chronic prostatitis

Chronic prostatitis is a condition characterised by ongoing pain and discomfort in the pelvic area. The exact cause is often unclear, making it challenging to treat with conventional methods. Shockwave therapy offers a new approach by targeting the affected areas with acoustic waves.

During a session for chronic prostatitis, a handheld device delivers focused shockwaves to the pelvic region. Typically, each session lasts about 20-30 minutes, with a full treatment course involving several sessions over a few weeks.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is frequently linked to poor blood flow to the penis. Shockwave therapy addresses this issue by stimulating the formation of new blood vessels (neovascularisation) in the penile tissue. This improved blood flow then enhances erectile function and overall sexual performance.

During a session for erectile dysfunction, low-intensity shockwaves are applied to various parts of the penis using a handheld device. Each session lasts around 15-20 minutes, with the entire treatment protocol typically consisting of 6-12 sessions over several weeks.

Peyronie’s disease

Peyronie's disease involves the development of fibrous scar tissue (plaque) inside the penis, leading to curved, painful erections. Shockwave therapy is used to break down the scar tissue and reduce penile curvature.

During a session for Peyronie's disease, shockwaves are directed at the plaque within the penis. The treatment is usually administered in sessions lasting 15-20 minutes, and a full course may involve several sessions, depending on the severity of the condition.

Are there any side effects to consider with shockwave therapy?

Shockwave therapy is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. However, as with any treatment, there are potential risks to consider.

For example, some people may experience mild discomfort during or after the treatment, but this is usually temporary. The treated area might also show minor bruising or redness, particularly in sensitive regions like the penis, though this typically resolves on its own.

In rare cases, patients may experience minor swelling or temporary numbness in the treated area, both of which are short-lived and generally resolve within a few hours.

Can shockwave therapy be combined with other treatments?

With erectile dysfunction, shockwave therapy can be combined with oral medications like PDE5 inhibitors (such as Viagra) to address underlying vascular issues while simultaneously providing immediate assistance with achieving an erection.

With chronic prostatitis, combining shockwave therapy with physiotherapy may help alleviate symptoms more effectively by improving blood flow and reducing pelvic floor tension and inflammation.

With Peyronie’s disease, shockwave therapy can complement surgical interventions in severe cases, either reducing the need for surgery by softening the plaque or being used as part of a post-surgical rehabilitation programme to improve outcomes.

Furthermore, some patients may also benefit from a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and stress management techniques. Combining these with shockwave therapy can enhance overall health and improve the effectiveness of the treatment.