Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2025

Author Spotlight: Effectiveness of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Achilles Tendinopathy Treatment
Published on: August 2, 2024
Variations in Low Intensity Shockwave Treatment Protocols for Erectile Dysfunction: A Review of the Literature and
Solomon Hayon1, Evan J Panken1, Nelson E Bennett2
1Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
Abstract:
Low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) for erectile dysfunction (ED) continues to gain popularity in both clinical practice and the academic literature. The majority of trials and meta-analysis studies have shown LiSWT to be low risk with a trend toward positive improvements in International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores. However, there is still debate over the clinical utility of LiSWT and there is no agreed upon optimal treatment protocol. In this review article we summarize published meta-analysis studies of LiSWT for ED, and review the treatment protocols from randomized sham-control trials published in the last 10 years. We found the most common device settings were an energy of 0.09 mJ/mm² and a frequency of 5 Hz. Shock number and location varied, but the most common protocol was 1,500 shocks per session, with 900 shocks to the penis (shaft, base, or hilum) and 600 shocks to the proximal corpora/crura. Protocols ranged from 4 to 12 treatment sessions. We also describe our institutional experience with LiSWT, including patient counseling and treatment protocol.
Related Concept Videos
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Among the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil (Revatio) stands out as a competitive and selective inhibitor. It operates by elevating cellular levels of cGMP and augmenting signaling through the cGMP-PKG pathway, promoting vasodilation. Upon oral...
Male Sexual Response: Erection & Ejaculation
The blood filling the erectile tissues compresses the veins, which helps to prevent blood from leaving...
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra....
Blood Pressure Imbalances and Circulatory Shock
Blood Pressure: Hypertension and Hypotension
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is 120-129/under 80 mm Hg. Hypertension, warranting treatment at 130/80 mm Hg, is often asymptomatic and can lead to severe cardiovascular events, aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, chronic renal disease, or cardiac...
Electroconvulsive Therapy

