Erectile Dysfunction
Shockwave Therapy
Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy (Li-SWT) is one option that may be considered for selected patients as part of erectile dysfunction treatment — after assessment, not instead of it.
Assessment first
Erectile Dysfunction Deserves a Diagnosis Before Any Treatment
Shockwave therapy is only ever considered after erectile dysfunction has been assessed — never as a first response to symptoms. Treatment is matched to the cause, in the same way as every other option on the treatment ladder.
Rationale
Li-SWT delivers low-intensity acoustic wave pulses to penile tissue. The rationale is to stimulate a localised tissue response, which may support erectile function in appropriately selected patients.
Who may be considered
Shockwave therapy may be considered for selected patients — particularly where a vascular contributor is relevant and first-line options have already been discussed. It is not appropriate for every cause of erectile dysfunction.
Alternatives
Li-SWT is one option among several on the erectile dysfunction treatment ladder. Lifestyle measures, PDE5 inhibitors, hormonal treatment, device options and other therapies remain relevant alternatives, discussed alongside it.
Evidence and limitations
Evolving evidence, individual response.
Evidence for Li-SWT is still evolving, and protocols vary between devices and providers. Response to treatment is not guaranteed and varies between individuals. Li-SWT is not offered as a stand-alone cure, and it does not replace identifying and addressing the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction — this is discussed openly at consultation, alongside alternative options.
FAQs