Why is shockwave therapy a great alternative to other treatments for erectile dysfunction and what are the success rates?

Shockwave therapy is considered a strong alternative to traditional erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments for several reasons, and its success rates are supported by multiple clinical studies.

Why Shockwave Therapy Is a Great Alternative

• Non-invasive and Drug-Free: Unlike oral medications (such as PDE5 inhibitors), injections, or surgical implants, shockwave therapy does not require drugs or invasive procedures, making it suitable for men who cannot tolerate or do not respond to medications.

• Targets the Root Cause: Shockwave therapy works by stimulating new blood vessel growth and improving blood flow, addressing the underlying vascular causes of ED rather than just treating symptoms.

• Potential for Long-Lasting Results: Improvements in erectile function can persist for months or even years after treatment, unlike medications that must be taken before each sexual activity.

• Minimal Side Effects: Most studies report that shockwave therapy is safe, with few or no significant adverse events.

• Effective for Difficult Cases: It can benefit men who have not responded to oral ED medications, offering hope to those with more challenging cases.

Success Rates

• General Population: Clinical studies report success rates typically ranging from 60% to 80% for men with ED, especially those with vascular causes.

  • One study found that 60% of patients reported significant improvement (over 5-point increase in IIEF-5 score) and 50% achieved spontaneous erections sufficient for penetration after six weeks of therapy.

  • Another study reported that 63.5% of men with ED unresponsive to oral medications achieved erections sufficient for penetration at 18 months post-treatment.

  • A separate study found 60% of patients with previously medication-resistant ED responded positively to shockwave therapy, maintaining results for at least 12 months.

  • Some clinics and reviews cite success rates as high as 70–80% for men with vasculogenic ED