how Shockwave Therapy works - underlying principles
Shockwave - or GAINSWave - therapy utilizes low-intensity sound waves to heal the vasculature of the penis (click here about the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction). This extracorporeal radial shockwave therapy is used to treat chronic pain, sports injuries, aesthetic alterations, as well as erectile dysfunction, Peyronie's disease, and sexual enhancement.
The low-intensity shockwave therapy therapy protocol creates microtraumas in the tissue, stimulating a cascade of immune responses. This approach treats the underlying cause of erectile function via the following mechanisms:
Stimulates nitric oxide production leading to increased blood flow to the penis
Breaks up microplaques in the small blood vessels of the penis
Stimulates angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels
Stimulates neurogenesis, the formation of new nerve tissue for improved sensitivity
Throughout the treatments, acoustic waves trigger the production of nitric oxide synthase (enzymes). This enzyme family catalyzes the creation of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide (NO) signals cells and regulates a variety of cell functions, including vascular tone (the degree a blood vessel constricts or dilates) and angiogenesis (creation of new blood vessels).
Aside from the helpful influence of nitric oxide, low-intensity shockwave therapy enhances blood flow by removing micro-plaques. Micro-plaques can build in blood vessels over decades, diminishing blood flow in the penis. Low-intensity shockwave therapy breaks these micro-plaques, rejuvenating the health of existing blood vessels and their ability to dilate — i.e., widening the vessels and improving overall blood flow.
The low-intensity shockwaves also create capillary micro-ruptures, leading to an outpour of healing growth factors, including VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), which are essentially growth hormones for the blood vessels. These growth factors aid the flow of nutrients to damaged tissue. The process significantly 1) repairs existing blood vessels, 2) stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, and 3) rejuvenates erectile tissue.
By repairing existing blood vessels, removing plaque blockages, and stimulating the development of new blood vessels and nerve tissue, the low-intensity shockwave therapy procedure effectively produces firmer, longer-lasting erections. Sound waves safely improve blood flow to the penis, leading to better initiation and maintenance of erections. Additionally, the regeneration of nerve tissue in the penis enhances sensitivity to improve sexual performance.
What is a low-intensity shockwave Machine?
The low-intensity shockwave machine is a low-intensity portable shockwave machine. A central control unit is programmed to reach specific frequencies and energy levels. A handpiece is connected to the central control unit.
For erectile dysfunction therapy, this small hand-held device is placed on the shaft and crus of the penis. Dr. Kate Kass, a certified GAINSWave-trained physician, and the KPM team ensure the shockwave machine is calibrated to the appropriate frequency and energy level for each patient’s unique condition.
Modern Research on low-intensity Shockwave Therapy
Low-intensity shockwave therapy is an increasingly popular option for a range of maladies.
From cardiovascular disease to cosmetic procedures, shockwave therapy is making waves in the medical world. For erectile dysfunction, specifically, there are several medical studies illustrating the clinical significance of low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy:
