The technology
Shock waves are single-pulse sound waves, which are delivered by a hand-held device applied to the skin. The device is applied to the perineum (the area between the scrotum and the anus) for the treatment of prostatitis, and on the penis for the treatment of Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction (ED).
The number of shockwave pulses delivered, as well as their frequency and energy, are customised to each condition treated and to each individual patient.
Extensive experience to date has shown that it is a very safe treatment.
In the field of Urology it has already been used for many years to break up kidney stones (lithotripsy). It is also very widely used in the treatment of orthopaedic problems, for example tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis.
In the field of Men’s Health it has opened up great opportunities for enhancing the success of treatments for chronic prostatitis, Peyronie’s disease and erectile dysfunction. Its use has been steadily increasing worldwide since 2013, particularly in Europe and North America.
Figure 1: Photo of EMS shockwave unit
Which conditions specific to men can be treated with Shockwave therapy?
Dupuytren’s contractures, which occur in tendon sheeths of the hand, can also be treated with SWT. In fact men who have Dupuytren’s contractures are more likely to develop Peyronie’s disease at some stage in their life.
What are the benefits of Shockwave therapy?
A non-invasive treatment
A hand-held applicator is positioned on the skin over the area to be treated: the perineum, the penis or the palm of the hand.
A very safe treatment
It does not cause any damage to surrounding nerves and blood vessels. In fact Shockwave therapy is now being used to treat certain cases of neuralgia (pain caused by a nerve).
What are the contraindications for Shockwave therapy?
- Long-term treatment with oral steroids (eg prednisone).
- A known blood-clotting disorder, or taking anticoagulants such as warfarin or the newer oral anticoagulants (eg apixaban, rivaroxaban). Note that aspirin is not a contraindication.
How do I get started?
An initial consultation to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for this treatment is mandatory. For Peyronie’s disease, the volume and density of the fibrous tissue will determine whether the treatment is likely to be successful. For chronic prostatitis and erectile dysfunction, an assessment to determine the causes of the problem is the first step. SWT should not be considered first-line treatment for these two conditions.
All bookings must be made online through this website. You will first need to register, a quick and easy process. All the demographic data you enter will be used to prepare your medical record prior to your first consultation. You can then book your appointment, selecting the ‘New patient appointment’ option.