Shock Wave Therapy
James Robles, MD
James Robles, MD, FIPP
Anti-Aging Medicine located in Weslaco, TX
Board-certified anesthesiologist and specialist James Robles, MD, offers 20+ years of experience in the most advanced treatments, including shock wave therapy. In addition to treating chronic, he uses shock wave therapy to treat erectile dysfunction in Weslaco, Texas. To find out if you’re a good candidate for shock wave therapy, call or book an appointment online today.
Shock Wave Therapy Q & A
What is shock wave therapy?
Although it may sound like more of a pain inducer than a pain reliever, shock wave therapy is a noninvasive treatment that relieves pain without narcotic medications or surgery. Shock wave therapy uses pressure waves to treat a variety of conditions, such as musculoskeletal pain due to injury.
This therapy also shows promise as an effective treatment for men with erectile dysfunction (ED). A study published by the International Society for Sexual Medicine found that shock wave therapy was a safe and effective treatment for 60% of patients with ED who didn’t show improvement with medication.
How does shock wave therapy work?
This treatment sends high-energy acoustic waves, known as shock waves, into your body’s tissues through a noninvasive probe. When Dr. Robles applies the probe to your skin, it sends an energy wave into the treatment area.
Shock wave therapy helps your body repair itself naturally by promoting tissue regeneration in your bones, tendons, and other soft tissues. It also stimulates collagen production, increases circulation and new blood vessel formation, and reverses inflammation.
Why would I need shock wave therapy?
Shock wave therapy is a multidisciplinary treatment used by orthopedic surgeons, urologists, and sports medicine specialists. Dr. Robles may recommend this treatment for fast pain relief from a variety of conditions, such as:
- Hip pain
- Tendon degeneration
- Bone spurs
- Shoulder pain
- Heel pain
If you suffer from ED or have a painful condition that doesn’t improve with other treatments, you may be a candidate for shock wave therapy.
What should I expect from shock wave therapy?
First, Dr. Robles performs a comprehensive physical exam to ensure that shock wave therapy is the right solution for your unique condition. He checks to make sure you don’t have a medical condition that interferes with the procedure, such as a seizure disorder.
During the procedure, Dr. Robles applies a small amount of gel to your skin at the treatment area. This gel helps transfer the acoustic waves properly. Then, he gently pushes the shock wave applicator against your skin.
Shock wave therapy generally isn’t painful, but you may experience some discomfort during treatment. However, the treatment only lasts about five minutes, and then you’re free to resume normal activities.
If you’re getting shock wave therapy for ED, Dr. Robles may combine treatment with another type of therapy, such as platelet-rich plasma injections.
To find out if shock wave therapy is right for you, call James Robles, MD or book an appointment online today.