Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an embarrassing and frustrating condition that affects many men. In recent years, a new treatment option has emerged that promises to provide a non-invasive, drug-free approach to treat ED: shockwave therapy. However, the safety and efficacy of this treatment remains controversial. In this blog post, we will explore the facts and fiction surrounding the use of shockwave therapy for ED.
Is Shockwave Therapy for ED Safe and Effective?
The use of shockwave therapy for ED is still considered investigational by the American Urological Association and the sexual medicine society. This is because there is still limited research on the treatment’s long-term safety and effectiveness. Shockwave therapy works by using high-frequency acoustic waves to improve blood flow to the penis, resulting in improved erectile function. This therapy is used to break up kidney stones.
Since shockwave therapy for ED is still considered experimental, patients are recommended to get it only in clinical trials instead of paying out of pocket. Long-term studies have shown that about 50% of patients continue to benefit from the therapy after one year. However, the frequency and number of shocks needed for sustained response are still uncertain. Shockwave therapy is not a magic bullet and may not be effective for everyone.
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The Importance of Researching Your Provider
The potential risks of shockwave therapy for ED need to be weighed against the higher probability of positive outcomes. The lack of regulation on shockwave therapy treatments and their affordability leave the market open to any medical provider who wants to incorporate Shockwave therapy into their practice. Therefore, it is paramount for you to ensure that you get this therapy from a qualified and experienced practitioner.
Research indicates that only 33% of clinics offering Shockwave therapy for ED were urologists, and 13% of them were not even board-certified physicians. Surprisingly, even gynecologists and obstetricians were providing Shockwave therapy to men despite being doctors that are trained to treat only women!
Patients should ensure they are getting Shockwave therapy from a urologist who is using a device and protocol based on scientific studies, not just personal preference. Patients should also have a discussion with a provider before going ahead with Shockwave therapy, as it is not a one-size-fits-all solution to ED. A qualified Shockwave device provider will give you all the necessary information regarding the therapy protocol and any potential side effects.
Read also: Everything you need to know about Shockwave 2023 Shockwave Therapy Updates: Defeating Erectile Dysfunction for Erectile Dysfunction
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Cost Analysis and Market Trends
Shockwave therapy is quite safe with minimal downtime, which has led to a sharp increase of non-Urologically owned E.D. clinics offering the service. Therefore, the cost per treatment ranges from $600 to $16,200 (largely depending on the location of the clinic), with Atlanta being the cheapest and New York being the most expensive. What is rather concerning, however, was that researchers from UCLA conducted a study on the market trends of Shockwave therapy in popular cities, finding that only 18% of clinics required a formal consultation with a doctor before providing the protocol for the therapy.
Not surprisingly, there was no standardization between clinics in terms of the type of Shockwave device used, the locations treated, and the number of treatment sessions administered. In some cases, the treatments were done without valid follow-up appointments with the overseeing physician.
Read also: Everything you need to know about Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction
Conclusion:
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive, safe, and effective alternative treatment that men with ED can use. Shockwave Therapy is NOT, however, a substitute for other treatments. If you choose to pursue Shockwave therapy, please ensure that you are getting it from an experienced and licensed urologist. Additionally, counsel with the doctor to determine if Shockwave therapy is the right treatment, and if it is, create a customized program tailored to your unique and nuanced needs.
By knowing your options and the market trends in treating ED, you can make an informed decision to improve the quality of your sexual health and ultimately of your mental and physical health. Always consult your doctor and be confident in the choice you’ve made for your wellness.
