Shocking New Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction Holds Promise

Although impotence treatments of various sorts, from medicines to special diets, have been around for decades, the newest treatment is among the most "shocking" in years. That's because the latest trend is shock treatment for erectile dysfunction, according to Live Science and information from the neuro-urology department at Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, Israel.

Although the idea of shocking one's private parts may make people wince, the shocks were very low level intensity waves. Also, the number of volunteers were relatively small, involving 20 brave souls with an average age of 56. The men had to have experienced mild or moderate erectile dysfunction for three years, perhaps serving as motivation for undergoing shock therapy as a treatment in the first place.

Shock Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction: A Better Alternative than Medication?

Men with cardiovascular problems often have erectile dysfunction issues. Medications can help but they may have side effects, including unpleasant ones. Shock therapy for erectile dysfunction may actually have fewer side effects, with the exception of the mental anguish caused by thinking of shocking one's nether regions.

Once men got beyond that, however, it seemed the treatment was highly effective. Not only could they function without medication, but there was no pain during treatment. The pressure was described as being less than that exerted by a woman in stiletto heels. Somehow that didn't sound all that painless to my husband but I'm assuming the pressure was considerably less than a woman in heels. I did wonder why that particular comparison was made but...well, never mind.

Warning: Don't try Shock Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction at Home

These were highly scientific studies and not just random shock waves. They were applied at five different sites on the men's lower regions, resulting in 300 shockwaves over a three minute period of time. The men went through this twice weekly for three weeks and then rested for three weeks.

Also worth keeping in mind? Not all men with erectile dysfunction would be likely candidates for shock therapy. Those with nerve or mucle damage would probably not see optimum results (if any). The men tested had reduced blood flow and shock therapy did work for the majority of these men. They did not have permanent damage. Again, these were very carefully monitored shockwaves conducted during a research study. So don't try this at home.

How common is Erectile Dysfunction Where Shock Therapy Might be Helpful?

Erectile Dysfunction affects an estimated 15 to 30 million men, although the severity of the problem ranges from partial to complete impotence. It increases with age and can be caused by anything, including medications and certain diseases, which impair blood flow. Common medical conditions include diabetes as well as heart conditions and prostate issues. For those who are inclined to drink alcohol to loosen up and have a good time, the reverse might be true when it comes to sexual performance. Alcohol and drug abuse can result in either partial or complete erectile dysfunction. For those whose reduced blood flow is partially or completely reversible with shock therapy, this could be a promising new treatment.

Sources: Shocking Treatment Helps Erectile Dysfunction, MSNBC, here
How Common is Erectile Dysfunction? Live Science Health, Oct 1, 2009, here