Shockwave Therapy for ED: Success Rate, What to Expect, and More
Aug. 3, 2026Erectile dysfunction (ED) is far more common than most men realize. So is the need for long-term improvement without relying on pills or surgery. Low-intensity shockwave therapy (LiSWT) has emerged as a non-invasive, drug-free option that works by improving blood flow and helping restore natural erectile function over time.
But what is shockwave therapy, exactly?
In this guide, we’ll provide a clear overview, examine the factors influencing shockwave therapy for ED success rates, review what clinical studies show, and discuss what to expect from treatment. We’ll also include insights from our expert clinical team to help you decide whether it's the right option for your unique needs,
What Is Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction?
Shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction uses low-intensity sound waves to stimulate new blood vessel growth and improve penile blood flow. The goal is to restore natural function by targeting the underlying vascular cause of ED rather than just managing symptoms.
During treatment, a handheld device delivers controlled acoustic pulses along the shaft and base of the penis. It’s a hassle-free outpatient procedure involving minimal discomfort. At most, patients may feel a mild tapping or vibration sensation. There’s no need for anesthesia or downtime afterward, so you can return to your regular routine right away.
Most men complete a series of 5–6 ED clinic sessions, each lasting about 15–20 minutes. At Golden State Urology, all treatments are physician-led and use FDA-cleared devices with evidence-based protocols to ensure safety, consistency, and optimal results.
Is Shockwave Therapy Effective for ED?
Clinical studies show that shockwave therapy for ED can significantly improve erectile function in about 50–80% of men, especially those with mild to moderate vasculogenic ED (depending on severity and underlying vascular health). More specifically, research data from the National Library of Medicine suggests:
- A 50–60% overall improvement rate
- A 70–80% success in mild, vasculogenic ED
- Improvements can be maintained for 6-12 months, and in some cases longer
Note that when reviewing shockwave therapy for ED, success rate criteria typically focus on increasing IIEF scores, firmer erections, and a greater ability to achieve penetration without medication.
Factors Affecting Success Rates
Further, researchers consistently find that outcomes depend on several key factors, including:
- Age
- Cardiovascular health
- Type and cause of ED
- Lifestyle habits
Because treatment protocols and device quality vary widely between clinics, proper evaluation and medical guidance are essential. At Golden State Urology, every treatment plan begins with a comprehensive assessment to ensure expectations are clear, therapy is appropriate, and any necessary customizations can be made to maximize your results.
What Are the Disadvantages of Shockwave Therapy?
While shockwave therapy can be an excellent option for many men, results vary between individuals, and it’s important to note that treatment is not yet FDA-approved specifically for erectile dysfunction.
For clarity, the technology itself is FDA-cleared. However, its original approval was for orthopedic and soft-tissue healing, meaning its use for ED is considered “off-label,” even though it’s widely used and well-studied in urology.
Understanding the Limitations
Because every man’s health profile is different, shockwave therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Reviewing the potential limitations can help you understand whether it’s a good fit for your situation:
- Again, not yet FDA-approved specifically for erectile dysfunction.
- Results vary depending on ED severity and underlying vascular health.
- Some men require maintenance sessions after 6–12 months.
- Usually not covered by insurance.
- Some patients experience minor side effects like redness, tingling, or temporary sensitivity.
If you're unsure, a personalized evaluation at Golden State Urology can help you understand how well shockwave therapy aligns with your medical history, long-term goals, and overall treatment plan.
What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy involves a series of quick, in-office sessions where low-intensity acoustic pulses are applied along the penis to help improve blood flow and erectile function.
Before beginning treatment, you’ll meet with your specialist for a full consultation that includes a medical history review, diagnostic testing, and a discussion about whether shockwave therapy is suitable for your specific type of ED.
The Bottom Line from Golden State Urology
Shockwave therapy for ED offers safe, non-invasive treatment with a high success rate, particularly for those with mild to moderate symptoms. Clinical studies show average improvement rates of 50–60%, with even higher outcomes among ideal candidates who maintain healthy habits and follow recommended follow-up care.
Ready to learn more about shockwave therapy for ED, success rate expectations, and what your personal path toward renewed confidence could look like? Our comprehensive men’s services include an industry-leading ED clinic where your care is carefully screened, guided, and monitored to help you achieve meaningful, lasting results.
Your happiness is our success. Contact us today to request an appointment and take the first step toward feeling your best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shockwave Therapy
To help you know exactly what to expect, here’s a quick list of FAQs that our team answers most often
Each session takes about 15–20 minutes. Because no anesthesia is required, you can return to your normal routine immediately afterward.
Most treatment plans comprise 5–6 sessions spaced over several weeks to achieve optimal vascular response.
No. The acoustic pulses are low-intensity, and most men describe the sensation as mild, with little to no discomfort beyond light tapping or pressure.
Many patients begin noticing subtle improvements after just 2–3 sessions. However, the most significant changes appear at around 2–3 months as new blood vessels continue to form.
Results can last 6–12 months, and sometimes even longer—especially when combined with healthy lifestyle habits and the proper follow-up care.
Everyone responds differently. When evaluating shockwave therapy for ED, success rate expectations and timelines should never be fixed targets. Rather, your progress should be continuously monitored, enabling your treatment plan to be adjusted promptly for optimal results.
Yes. Multiple clinical studies have found that shockwave therapy is both safe and well-tolerated. Research from several peer-reviewed trials shows no long-term tissue damage, and side effects, although rare, are generally mild and temporary.
Furthermore, because shockwave therapy is non-invasive and drug-free, it’s an excellent option for men who cannot take oral PDE5 inhibitor medications. And, since the technology is FDA-cleared for other medical uses, the overall safety profile of shockwave therapy is well established in clinical practice.
At Golden State Urology, all treatments are performed using medical-grade equipment under the supervision of board-certified urologists to ensure safe, consistent, and effective care.
Shockwave therapy and the P-Shot work differently. Shockwave therapy improves blood flow by stimulating new blood vessel growth, while P-Shot treatment uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to support tissue repair and enhance sensitivity.
The best option for you depends on the underlying cause and your treatment goals. Shockwave therapy has stronger clinical evidence, particularly for vasculogenic ED, where reduced blood flow is the primary issue. The P-Shot may be more suitable for men with mild symptoms related to tissue changes or decreased sensitivity.
For some patients, combining both therapies can provide added benefit, but this must be determined by a professional urologist. Only a qualified specialist can evaluate which approach aligns best with your ED type, overall health, and treatment goals.
When evaluating shockwave therapy for ED, success rate figures are usually highest among men with mild to moderate cases related to reduced blood flow rather than nerve damage or structural changes. In fact, medical studies indicate clear differences in outcomes based on overall health and severity:
• Younger men and those with fewer cardiovascular risk factors often see more improvement.
• Success rates can reach 93.9% in mild cases compared to 31.2% among men with more severe ED.
• Patients with advanced arterial disease, long-standing diabetes, severe nerve damage, or post-prostatectomy ED may experience more limited improvement.
These patterns reflect what our clinicians observe regularly in real-world practice: when vascular health is stronger, the effectiveness of shockwave therapy increases, especially when supported by healthy habits or complementary therapies.
Yes. Changing a few daily habits to support your vascular health and hormone balance can make a significant impact. A few proven strategies include:
Exercise: The best physical exercise routines for erectile dysfunction incorporate regular aerobic and pelvic floor movements to improve blood flow.
Weight management: A healthy weight supports testosterone levels and reduces blood pressure.
Alcohol and nicotine: Reduce or eliminate intake to protect vascular and endothelial function.
Nutrition: Some supplements that may increase blood flow to your penis naturally include L-arginine, ginseng, and vitamin D. However, these should always be reviewed with your doctor before use.
Stress management: Mindfulness and breathing exercises can help reduce performance anxiety.
These lifestyle changes can improve overall sexual health. However, they may not fully resolve ED on their own and are usually most effective when paired with medical evaluation and the proper treatment approach.
Supporting Professional References
European Urology
Vardi Y. et al. (2010) – “Can Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Improve Erectile Function? A 6-Month Follow-Up Pilot Study”
Journal of Sexual Medicine
Lu Z. et al. (2017) – “Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”
Therapeutic Advances in Urology
Clavijo RI et al. (2017) – “Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction”
American Urological Association
AUA Erectile Dysfunction Guidelines
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FAQ’s
We’re sure you have questions, and we’re here to answer them! Below are some frequently asked questions that might help, but we’re also available via phone or email for anything that might be on your mind!
A urologist is a physician whose specialty is maintaining and studying the male reproductive system and the urinary tracts of both men and women. These specialists are certified in diagnosing and treating many conditions in the genitourinary tract, which encompasses the kidneys, urinary bladder, ureter, urethra, and adrenal glands. A urologist also studies and deals with the male reproductive organs — penis, prostate, testicles, epididymis, seminal vesicles, vas deferens, etc. A urologist can also specialize in male fertility as well, performing vasectomies and vasectomy reversals.
Our urologists in Sacramento treat disorders such as urinary tract infections (UTI), kidney stones, hematuria (blood in the urine), kidney cancer, stress incontinence, benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and cystitis. You will also find a doctor who is skilled in gynecology to address women’s urinary health and in pediatrics to treat urinary issues in children. Golden State Urology employs some of the best urologists in Sacramento with in-depth expertise and extensive experience in treating these conditions.
A urologist can help both men and women struggling with urinary or sexual health issues. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule your consultation with one of our urologists in Sacramento.
Symptoms for Men
- Urinary Issues: Frequent urination, especially at night, urgency, weak or interrupted urine flow, dribbling, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
- Erectile Dysfunction: Problems with achieving or maintaining an erection.
- Testicular Problems: Pain, swelling, or lumps in the testicles.
- Certain Types of Pain: Pain in the lower back, groin, and pelvis or pain while urinating.
- Blood in the Urine: Visible blood or a pinkish tint to the urine.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control or leaking urine.
Symptoms for Women
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Frequent UTIs or recurring infections that require antibiotics.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control or involuntary leaking of urine.
- Painful Urination: A burning sensation or pain when urinating.
- Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate often, especially at night.
- Blood in the Urine: Visible blood or a pinkish tint to the urine.
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Sensation of pressure or a bulge in the pelvic region.
- Pain in the Lower Abdomen or Pelvis: Persistent or sharp pain in these areas.
A urologist can perform in-depth tests to provide an accurate diagnosis. Our team of urology physicians will also prescribe treatment to resolve the underlying cause and help manage your symptoms.
If you have no urological symptoms, a general check-up every few years is usually sufficient. However, men over 40, those with a history of urological issues, or those at risk for prostate cancer should schedule annual visits.
Participating in a clinical trial can give you access to cutting-edge treatments before they are widely available. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks, benefits, and eligibility criteria with your doctor to determine if a trial aligns with your health needs.
Screening recommendations vary based on age, sex, and risk factors. Men over 50 (or 40 with risk factors) should consider prostate cancer screening. Women may need regular pelvic exams and UTI screenings. Kidney function, bladder health, and STIs are other considerations. Always consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.
Yes, a family history of conditions like prostate cancer, kidney disease, bladder cancer, or infertility can increase your risk. If certain urological issues run in your family, early screening and lifestyle changes may help with prevention and early detection.
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