Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction

There are numerous ways to address erectile dysfunction (ED). Shockwave therapy could work as a long-term treatment for underlying physical causes of erectile dysfunction.

Apart from penile implants and lifestyle modifications, techniques that include medicines and injections represent effective and on-demand treatment options. Shockwave therapy could be a great alternative. Improper blood flow to the penis is a common underlying cause of ED. Shockwave therapy may work best for men with this condition, as experts believe it improves blood flow.

Keep reading this blog to learn more about how shockwave therapy for ED works, the potential side effects, and where people can receive treatment.

What Is Shockwave Therapy?

Shockwave therapy is one of the most advanced techniques currently being used in the treatment of ED. This therapy uses single pulses of energy that travel faster than the speed of sound to stimulate blood flow to the affected area. These pulses of energy help create new blood vessels by a process called neovascularization.

Since 2009, using low-intensity shockwaves has been shown to be effective in managing erectile dysfunction and stimulating proper blood flow to the penis [1]. The clinical term for this treatment, as used by medical experts, is low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT).

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work for ED?

Proper blood flow is crucial for achieving and maintaining a firm erection. When healthy, the blood vessels that feed blood circulation to your penis dilate and expand and fill up with blood to create an erection.

In erectile dysfunction, the blood vessels may narrow and harden, reducing their ability to dilate and allow adequate blood flow. This can be compared to a pinched pipe, where some blood can pass through, but not enough pressure is generated to produce or maintain an erection. The erectile tissues of the penis may also become compromised, further affecting erectile function.

Shockwave Therapy uses controlled micro-trauma to stimulate the blood vessels and tissues in the penis. This process may encourage the body’s natural healing response, helping stem cells migrate to the targeted areas and support the development of healthier tissues and blood vessels [1].

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy

Some of the notable benefits of shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction include [2]:

• Directly targets the mechanism responsible for erections
• Long-lasting results
• No surgery
• Noninvasive
• No needles, no pumps
• Drug-free
• Restores sexual function
• Cost-effective
• Improves rigidity and firmness of erections
• Pain-free
• Quick treatment

Cost of Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is delivered as a defined course of treatment rather than a single visit, so the total course cost is the more useful figure [3].

For ED, a common course is 6 to 12 sessions with a gap of about a week between each session. Therefore, the total cost of shockwave therapy for ED is roughly $2,000 to $6,000.

However, several factors may affect the price, including

• The device and the type of shockwave therapy.
• Provider experience and certification.
• Location: clinics in urban areas are often priced higher than those in suburban or rural areas.
• Consultation fees, sometimes billed on top of sessions.

Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy Procedure

Shockwave therapy might sound terrifying, but it is not painful or invasive. Medical providers who treat erectile dysfunction often offer this therapy in their offices.

You typically don’t need anesthesia for the procedure, and you can drive yourself home afterward.

Here’s what you can expect during treatment:

• Shock waves are delivered through a wand-like device connected to a machine.
• Your urologist or healthcare professional places the device near your penis to deliver the shock waves.
• Each session usually lasts about 15 minutes.

Since there’s no standard protocol for this therapy, the total number of shock waves you get each treatment will depend on where you go for therapy. The number of sessions you need may also differ. For example, some centers suggest 4 treatments in total, while others recommend up to 12 sessions [4].

Shockwave Therapy Risks

Currently, shockwave therapy does not have approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for addressing impotence in men. This means it is presently still an experimental treatment.

Adverse effects of shockwave therapy for ED may include [5]:

• Bruising of penile skin
• Blood in urine
• Painful erection (priapism)
• Penile skin infection
• Pain or difficulty during sexual intercourse, due to the above.

A 2019 review of clinical studies reports positive initial results for shockwave therapy, with a good safety record and improved erectile function. However, more studies are needed to determine the best treatment practices.

How Long Does Shockwave Therapy Take to Work?

Most men who undergo shockwave therapy for ED begin to notice improvements within one to three months. Some may experience significant changes within the first few weeks. However, there is still limited long-term research on the treatment, so it remains unclear how long the benefits last, whether the effects may diminish over time, or whether additional treatment may be required [6].

Who Should Try Shockwave Therapy for ED

Shockwave therapy is suitable if you [7]:

• Have mild to moderate erectile dysfunction and want a drug-free treatment to improve your sexual function and intimate life.
• Do not respond well to PDE5 inhibitors.
• Experience weaker erections due to poor blood circulation.
• Are seeking long-term improvement from ED, not just temporary symptom relief.

However, this procedure is not suitable for:

• Those with severe ED
• Patients with nerve damage-related ED.
• Men with untreated cardiovascular diseases or diabetes that require medical management first.

Alternatives

There are several alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction, including medicines, surgery, and lifestyle modifications. Strategies depend on the cause and severity of ED, as well as a man’s medical history.

However, the first-line treatment options are oral medications, which doctors refer to as pde5 inhibitors. These include: Sildenafil (generic Viagra), Vardenafil (generic levitra), and Tadalafil (generic Cialis).

All these medicines work by blocking an enzyme called PDE5. This action prevents the breakdown of cGMP, a molecule that helps relax smooth muscle and dilate blood vessels. By maintaining the levels of cGMP, these medications enhance blood flow to the penis, thus leading to firm penile erection during sexual arousal.

Note: Always take these medications under the supervision of a healthcare professional to avoid negative effects.

Other treatment options include lifestyle modifications, such as:

• Avoiding alcohol and smoking
• Making dietary changes
• Managing anxiety, stress, or relationship problems through relaxation therapy
• Regular exercise

Other treatments

• ED rings
• Vacuum erection devices or penis pumps
• Surgical penile implant

Conclusion

Erectile dysfunction can be a frustrating condition affecting both physical and emotional aspects of men’s lives. Shockwave therapy can be a promising option for those seeking an effective solution to ED. As this field of treatment continues to evolve, it’s important to consult with a medical professional who specializes in shockwave therapy and erectile dysfunction. They can evaluate your individual case, provide personalized guidance, and decide if shockwave therapy is the right option for you. Remember, open communication with medical providers is crucial for making informed decisions about your sexual health and overall well-being.