【Low-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction and Chronic Prostatitis】

Principle of Shock Wave Therapy
The principle of extracorporeal shock wave therapy involves using a shock wave device to generate focused acoustic pressure waves of specific frequencies and energy levels directed at targeted areas of the body. As early as 1980, shock wave therapy was first applied in Germany for the treatment of urinary stones. In the early 21st century, scientists discovered that when the energy level of the shock wave is reduced, the stimulation can promote cellular regeneration.
Orthopedic physicians began using low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) to treat conditions such as tendinitis, non-healing fractures, and tennis elbow. Cardiologists also found that low-energy shock waves can stimulate angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) in the heart.

Since the anatomical structure of the penis consists of a network of cavernous bodies covered by a fibrous membrane (tunica albuginea), urologists began to explore the use of low-energy shock waves to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Repeated animal and clinical studies have shown that low-energy shock waves (with energy less than 0.08 mJ/mm²) can safely treat various tissues, promoting wound healing, soft tissue regeneration, peripheral nerve repair, and angiogenesis.
 

Low-Energy Shock Wave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction
In 2015, the European Association of Urology included low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) in its guidelines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Basic research has demonstrated that low-energy shock waves can promote neovascularization in the penile corpus cavernosum, recruit progenitor and peripheral stem cells, enhance microcirculation, increase nitric oxide (which dilates blood vessels), reduce fibrosis of the penile tissue, and facilitate nerve regeneration.

Clinical studies have further shown that low-energy shock wave therapy can enhance spontaneous erections, reduce the need for medication, or improve responsiveness to medication. On average, approximately 75% of patients report satisfaction following treatment.