Why Are Men Shocking Their Penises

Shockwave Therapy for ED

Affecting approximately 30 million men in the U.S., erectile dysfunction (ED) is common for men of all ages. Erectile dysfunction symptoms are two-fold. It includes difficulty achieving an erection and/or difficulty maintaining an erection. Oftentimes, the cause of ED is due to poor blood flow to the penis caused by a build-up of plaque in the blood vessels of the penis over time or damage to the nerves. These are likely sources in men that have cardiac disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and are of older age.

What is Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy?

The popularity of a nontraditional treatment of ED is growing: Low-intensity shockwave therapy for ED. Gone are the days of medication therapy as the only treatment option. Also known as Gainswave therapy, Low-intensity shock wave treatment is becoming popular as a safe, noninvasive, drug-free treatment option for ED.

It uses low-intensity shock waves applied to different areas of the penis and surrounding areas to breakdown plaque in the blood vessels and repair them to improve blood flow. It is non-invasive (no cuts), requires no anesthesia, no downtime and causes minimal discomfort.

Patients have described it as nothing more than a “tingling” sensation.

The Procedure

The shockwave therapy is performed in the office in short 20 minute sessions. Typically, it takes five to ten sessions for improvement and the benefits can last for up to two years. Studies have shown that up to 75% of men who were using medications for ED who underwent low-intensity shock wave therapy for ED were able to stop taking their meds as sexual function had improved with the treatments.

Although shockwave therapy is on the rise, it is not an appropriate option for all men. Behavioral therapy, weight loss, good nutrition, stress reduction, supplements and traditional ED medications often are approaches that are suggested prior to jumping directly into any Gainswave or shockwave therapy treatment.

ED Treatment for Everyone

Not all men have erectile dysfunction due to plaque, scar tissue build-up, or nerve damage. Oftentimes, the traditional approach of treatment is the most effective, especially in younger men.

According to a study from the Journal of Sexual Medicine, one out of every four erectile dysfunction patients is under 40 years old. Achieving an erection is a complex process, involving psychological impulses from the brain, adequate levels of testosterone, a functioning nervous system, and adequate and healthy vascular tissue in the penis.

Underlying factors can be uncovered simply by lab tests, a thorough history, and an exam. Obesity, sleep apnea, low testosterone, narcotic use, heavy drug and alcohol use, stress and poor diet can be reversed, allowing for ED to be resolved in its entirety. If you’re not sure where to start, drop us a note. Dr. Shaw is ready to answer any question and every concern you have.