Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT) is becoming increasingly recognized in the medical community for its utility in treating a variety of conditions. Notably, this non-invasive therapy has garnered attention in the field of urology for its application in treating erectile dysfunction (ED), among other medical indications. By leveraging acoustic waves to promote healing and tissue regeneration, Li-ESWT offers an alternative to more invasive treatments, providing a new avenue for enhancing patient care.
- How Does Li-ESWT Work?
- Li-ESWT in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- Broader Applications of Li-ESWT in Medicine
- SoftWave Therapy: Pioneering Li-ESWT in Modern Urology and More
How Does Li-ESWT Work?
Li-ESWT employs acoustic waves that generate transient pressure disturbances, which propagate through tissue to stimulate cellular activities and promote neovascularization. Unlike traditional shock wave therapy that may utilize higher intensities or different waveforms, Li-ESWT focuses on low-intensity pulses that enhance blood flow and tissue regeneration without the need for anesthesia or invasive procedures. This therapy is grounded in the enhancement of natural biological processes, thus offering a patient-friendly, efficacious treatment modality.
Li-ESWT in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction, a condition affecting an estimated 30 million men in the U.S., is increasingly being treated with Li-ESWT due to its efficacy in improving blood flow and tissue health in the penile area. The seminal study by Raul I. Clavijo et al. (2017) demonstrated that Li-ESWT significantly enhances erectile function as measured by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled data from several randomized controlled trials comparing Li-ESWT with sham treatments, revealing a notable improvement in erectile function scores following Li-ESWT sessions.
Further reinforcing these findings, a 2022 study by Dimitrios Kalyvianakis et. al. specifically targeted men with moderate ED. This double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial evidenced that after 12 sessions of Li-ESWT, 79% of treated patients reported clinically significant improvement in their erectile function, markedly higher than those in the control group. This study not only confirmed the efficacy of Li-ESWT in improving erectile outcomes but also highlighted its safety, with no significant adverse effects reported.
Broader Applications of Li-ESWT in Medicine
Li-ESWT extends its therapeutic potential far beyond urology, addressing a variety of medical conditions across different specialties. Here are a few examples:
In Podiatry
Li-ESWT has demonstrated significant efficacy in treating plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain. A retrospective study utilizing the OrthoGold 100TM device analyzed the outcomes of 108 patients treated between 2013 and 2018. Results indicated substantial reductions in pain and enhancements in functional abilities post-treatment, with the majority of patients expressing high satisfaction at their final follow-up. This suggests Li-ESWT as a potent treatment modality for plantar fasciitis, offering both pain relief and functional improvement.
In Orthopedics
In orthopedic practice, Li-ESWT has been proven effective for the management of delayed union of clavicle fractures, a frequent complication post-surgical intervention. A detailed case report by Lei Yue et al. explored the therapeutic potential of Li-ESWT in a 66-year-old patient with a clavicle delayed union. Treatment consisted of ten sessions, demonstrating significant clinical and radiographical improvement, which suggests that Li-ESWT can serve as a viable non-invasive alternative to conventional surgical approaches in orthopedic complications.
In Wound Management
The utility of Li-ESWT in wound care, particularly for chronic, non-healing wounds, was systematically analyzed in a case series by Dr. Belinda Marcus. This series involved six patients with varied etiologies including surgical wounds and diabetic foot ulcers, who underwent multiple Li-ESWT sessions. The therapy led to complete wound closure in all cases, highlighting its role in enhancing autologous healing processes and providing a significant adjunct to traditional wound management strategies.
In Urology
Li-ESWT has been adapted to treat Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), a prevalent condition that often eludes effective treatment. Research conducted by Darijus Skaudickas et al. (2020) involved 40 patients with CPPS who received Li-ESWT once weekly for four weeks. The treatment yielded significant reductions in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and improvements in the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).
Read more additional resources and studies
SoftWave Therapy: Pioneering Li-ESWT in Modern Urology and More
SoftWave stands as a leading modality within Li-ESWT, offering distinct advantages due to its innovative technological approach. Beyond its established role in urology, particularly for erectile dysfunction, SoftWave demonstrates promise in managing numerous medical conditions. These include musculoskeletal conditions, wound healing, and improvements in women’s pelvic health and sexual function.
Unique Technology for Comprehensive Treatment
SoftWave’s technology utilizes electrohydraulic, low-intensity broad-focused shockwaves delivered through a patented 7cm x 12cm parabolic reflector applicator. This design generates both primary and secondary waves over a large treatment area, ensuring deep tissue penetration and effective shockwave distribution. These mechanical waves trigger a cellular response that activates several natural healing processes, including angiogenesis, tissue elasticity restoration, and the activation of growth factors. These mechanisms contribute to SoftWave therapy’s comprehensive treatment outcomes across various medical specialties.
SoftWave devices hold FDA clearance for a broad spectrum of indications and can help with:
- Activation of connective tissue
- Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers
- Improvement in blood supply
- Management of plantar fasciitis
- Pain relief
- Care for acute burns
In the field of urology, specifically, the SoftWave UroGold® has demonstrated effectiveness and safety in treating conditions like:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Peyronie’s disease
Transform Your Practice: Become a SoftWave Provider Today
Integrating SoftWave therapy into your practice can significantly enhance patient care and provide substantial growth opportunities for your clinic. SoftWave devices are not only pioneering in technology but also offer versatility in treating a range of conditions effectively and safely.
Schedule a demo today or sign up to purchase to explore the benefits further and see SoftWave in action. Our team is ready to provide comprehensive information about purchasing options and the integration process.
