Methods of Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Patients with Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

The problem of treating patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) is highly relevant, since it is directly related to the reproductive potential of Russia. Despite the existence of different perspectives regarding the factors determining the occurrence of ED – organic or psychogenic, most researchers agree that this problem should be addressed in a comprehensive manner, involving not only the modern advances of drug therapy, but also various methods of physiotherapy. The accumulated experience of natural and preformed physical factors usage to correct ED requires generalization, since in modern medicine, questions of the reliability of evidence obtained fromthe results of scientific research come to the fore. The article analyzes scientific data on the effectiveness of various physiotherapy methods for ED correction, published in specialized Russian and foreign journals over the past 10 years. A number of studies are devoted to the impact of electrotherapy, ultrasound therapy and laser therapy not only in the form of monotherapy against the background of basic drug therapy, but also in the form of complex effects on the circulatory state, functional disorders and quality of life of patients with ED. Most scientific papers deal with rehabilitation treatment of patients with ED caused by a metabolic syndrome. Studies onthe influence of physical factors on erectile function in patients with chronic prostatitis are also presented. The review provides information concerning advantages of rehabilitation programs for sanatorium treatment of ED patients in comparison with outpatient treatment. Based on the analysis of scientific data, the authors conclude that further research on the study and development of new comprehensive programs, including physiotherapy methods, for the treatment of ED patients is appropriate and promising.