Prostatitis Treatment: Can Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Help?

Q: Prostatitis Treatment: Can Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Help?

Ah Hong： The treatment range of the magnetic wave chair is quite limited, approximately 8-12 centimeters above the surface of the chair, with the effectiveness decreasing from the center. <br>Generally, the effective range is about a 10-centimeter circular area. <br>It is not pos

The treatment of prostatitis?

Hello, Doctor.
I previously inquired about related issues, and over the past year, the medications have not improved my condition at all.
Even the most promising one, Pollen T60, did not help.
I still experience alternating soreness and dull pain from the left perineum to the groin, pubic area, and hip joint.
Recently, I learned about the health insurance-covered extracorporeal magnetic wave chair for rehabilitation, and I would like to ask about your clinical experience.
Have any patients undergone this treatment and experienced improvement in inflammation leading to recovery?
Assuming that my issue is not prostatitis but rather conditions like fascial inflammation in the inner thigh or perineum, or chronic inflammation in the hip joint or pelvic cavity, I would like to understand if the magnetic wave chair can penetrate the entire pelvic cavity to assist in treatment.
Additionally, does its mechanism involve muscle relaxation and promoting blood circulation, or does it have other effects? I plan to visit a hospital with this equipment for treatment at the end of the month.
Should I make an appointment with the rehabilitation department or the urology department?
I would appreciate it if you could provide clarification on these questions.
Thank you.

A-Hong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/12

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Ah Hong: The treatment range of the magnetic wave chair is quite limited, approximately 8-12 centimeters above the surface of the chair, with the effectiveness decreasing from the center.
Generally, the effective range is about a 10-centimeter circular area.
It is not possible to treat the entire pelvic cavity; only localized treatment of the pelvic floor can be performed.
The principle involves using electromagnetic waves to generate small electric currents that stimulate blood circulation, among other effects.
Any department that has the equipment can utilize it.
In some hospitals, the machines are shared across different specialties.
Responses found online should only serve as references; if necessary, it is important to seek care at a medical facility.
This message is brought to you by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2015/01/12

More Info

Prostatitis, particularly chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), can be a challenging condition to manage, especially when conventional treatments such as medications fail to provide relief. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a potential treatment option for various musculoskeletal and chronic pain conditions, including prostatitis.

Understanding Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
ESWT involves the application of acoustic waves to targeted areas of the body. The therapy is thought to work by promoting healing through several mechanisms:
1. Increased Blood Flow: Shockwaves can stimulate the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which enhances blood circulation in the treated area. Improved blood flow can facilitate the delivery of nutrients and oxygen, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

2. Pain Relief: The therapy may help in reducing pain by interrupting the pain pathways and promoting the release of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

3. Muscle Relaxation: ESWT can help relax tense muscles, which may be beneficial if muscle tension contributes to pelvic pain.

4. Tissue Regeneration: The mechanical effects of shockwaves can stimulate cellular repair and regeneration, potentially aiding in the recovery of damaged tissues.

Clinical Experience with ESWT for Prostatitis
While there is limited research specifically targeting the efficacy of ESWT for prostatitis, some studies and clinical experiences suggest that it may provide relief for patients suffering from chronic pelvic pain, including those with prostatitis. Patients have reported improvements in symptoms such as pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and discomfort during urination after undergoing ESWT. However, results can vary significantly from person to person.

Applicability to Other Conditions
If your symptoms are not solely related to prostatitis but may involve conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, hip joint issues, or pelvic floor dysfunction, ESWT could still be beneficial. The therapy's ability to penetrate tissues means it can potentially address pain in the pelvic region, including the inner thigh and groin areas.

Treatment Considerations
Regarding your upcoming treatment, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in physical medicine and rehabilitation (physiatry) or a urologist familiar with ESWT. They can provide guidance on whether this therapy is appropriate for your specific symptoms and condition.

Conclusion
In summary, while ESWT may not be a guaranteed solution for everyone, it represents a promising option for those with chronic prostatitis or related pelvic pain conditions. Its ability to enhance blood circulation, relieve pain, and promote tissue healing makes it a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal for chronic pelvic pain syndromes. As with any treatment, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to your individual needs.

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