Shock Wave Therapy for ED: Does It Work?
By Ezra Allen, Oct-23-2026
Dr. Arjun Srivastav Medical Reviewer (Pharm D) Shock wave therapy for ED is gaining attention as a non-invasive option for men who want to understand alternatives to erectile dysfunction medication. The treatment uses low-intensity sound waves applied to penile tissue, with the aim of improving blood flow. However, research is still developing, and the results are not the same for everyone.
TL;DR: Quick Answer
Shock wave therapy for erectile dysfunction may offer a modest improvement in erectile function for some men, particularly those with blood-flow-related ED. However, the available evidence remains uncertain, and researchers have not established the most effective treatment schedule or how long any benefits may last.
Australian guidance continues to describe this approach as experimental rather than an established first-line treatment.
What Is Shock Wave Therapy for ED?
Shock wave therapy for ED is a non-invasive procedure that uses low-intensity sound waves to deliver energy to tissue around the penis. Its clinical name is low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (Li-ESWT), also commonly shortened to LiSWT.
The treatment is intended to support processes involved in blood vessel function and circulation. Since an erection depends on adequate blood flow into the penis, researchers are investigating whether these changes can help some men achieve firmer erections.
Shock wave therapy has been used in other fields, including the treatment of kidney stones and certain musculoskeletal conditions. Its use for erectile dysfunction is a separate application, and evidence from those other conditions does not establish how well it works for ED.
It is also worth distinguishing focused shock wave therapy from radial pressure wave treatments. Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in advertising, the technologies differ. Evidence relating to one device or treatment method should not automatically be applied to another.
How Does Shock Wave Therapy Work for ED?
An erection occurs when blood flows into the erectile tissue of the penis and remains there long enough to maintain firmness. Problems affecting blood vessels or circulation can interfere with this process.
Low-intensity shock wave therapy is being studied for its potential effects on blood vessel function and the formation of small blood vessels. Researchers are also examining whether it can influence tissue repair. The proposed process works as follows:
- Sound wave delivery: A device delivers controlled pulses of acoustic energy to selected areas around the penis.
- Tissue response: The energy may stimulate biological processes associated with blood vessel function and tissue repair.
- Possible circulation changes: These effects may help improve blood flow in some men.
- Potential changes in erections: If circulation improves sufficiently, a man may notice a change in erection firmness or his ability to maintain an erection.
These are proposed effects, not guaranteed outcomes. The precise biological mechanisms and their importance in treating ED are still being investigated.
Does Shock Wave Therapy Work for Erectile Dysfunction?
The research suggests that low-intensity shock wave therapy may improve erectile function in some men, but the size and importance of that improvement remain uncertain.
A Cochrane review published in 2025 examined 21 randomised controlled trials involving 1,357 men. The researchers found that shock wave therapy may produce a small improvement in erectile function in the short term. They also found a possible longer-term benefit, although confidence in these findings was limited by differences between studies and methodological concerns.
The review did not establish that the observed improvements would be meaningful for every patient. It also found insufficient evidence about patient and partner satisfaction or sexual quality of life. Several factors make the findings difficult to interpret:
- Studies have used different devices, energy settings and treatment schedules.
- Participants have varied in the severity and causes of their ED.
- Some studies have followed participants for only a limited period.
- The available evidence is not strong enough to identify a single treatment protocol that works best.
Australian clinical guidelines also advise caution. Low-intensity shock wave therapy remains a developing approach, and the evidence does not support presenting it as an established option for every man with ED.
Who Might Benefit From Shock Wave Therapy?
Researchers have paid particular attention to men whose erectile dysfunction is associated with reduced blood flow. Some studies have reported more encouraging results in men with mild to moderate ED than in those with more severe symptoms.
However, there is no reliable way to predict an individual’s response from these findings alone. A specialist may consider factors such as:
- The likely cause and severity of erectile dysfunction.
- Existing conditions, including diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
- Current medicines and previous responses to ED treatment.
- Whether the proposed treatment is supported by appropriate clinical evidence.
- The person’s expectations, preferences and budget.
Men with severe ED, nerve damage or complex underlying health conditions may have different treatment needs. A clinical assessment is important before deciding whether to explore this procedure.
What Happens During a Shock Wave Therapy Session?
The exact procedure depends on the device, treatment protocol and clinic. A typical session involves an external device that delivers acoustic pulses to selected areas of the penis. The process commonly includes the following steps:
- Initial consultation: A clinician reviews erection difficulties, relevant health conditions, current medicines and previous treatments.
- Treatment planning: If the procedure is considered appropriate, the clinician explains the device being used, the proposed schedule, expected outcomes and costs.
- Application of the device: The clinician moves the treatment applicator over selected areas to deliver the acoustic pulses.
- Completion of the session: The device is removed, and the clinician provides any necessary aftercare instructions.
The procedure generally does not require an incision or general anaesthesia. Some men may experience mild discomfort during treatment, although individual experiences vary. Before agreeing to treatment, ask the provider which device is being used and whether it delivers focused shock waves or radial pressure waves. This distinction matters because the evidence for one method may not apply to the other.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
There is no universally established schedule for shock wave therapy for ED. Some clinics advertise a course of around six sessions, while others offer a different number of appointments over several weeks. These schedules reflect individual clinic protocols rather than a single regimen proven to be most effective.
The total number of sessions may depend on the device, the treatment method and the provider’s approach. More sessions do not necessarily mean better results. Before starting, ask the provider to explain:
- How many sessions are proposed and how often they occur.
- What evidence supports that particular schedule.
- How progress will be assessed.
- What happens if there is little or no improvement.
- Whether follow-up sessions could add to the total cost.
A clear treatment plan helps you make an informed decision without relying solely on promotional claims.
How Long Does Shock Wave Therapy Take to Work?
Any improvement is unlikely to be assessed immediately after a single session. Studies have measured outcomes at different intervals, and some have reported changes over the weeks or months following treatment.
However, the available research does not establish a dependable timeline for everyone. Some men may notice a change, while others may experience little difference. It is also uncertain how long any improvement lasts. Studies with longer follow-up periods remain limited, and further research is needed to understand whether results decline over time or whether additional treatment provides meaningful benefits.
Be cautious of providers who promise a specific result by a particular date. Ask how they measure improvement and whether their claims are supported by published clinical research.
What Are the Possible Side Effects and Risks?
Low-intensity shock wave therapy has generally been associated with few treatment-related adverse events in clinical studies. However, the evidence is not strong enough to rule out every possible risk, especially with different devices and treatment protocols.
Reported or possible problems include:
- Discomfort or pain during treatment
- Bruising or minor bleeding around the treated area
- Skin irritation
- Other local symptoms that should be assessed by the treating clinician
The safety information available for one type of device should not automatically be applied to every procedure marketed as shock wave therapy. Tell your clinician about any bleeding disorder, relevant health condition or medicine that may affect bleeding before treatment. Seek prompt medical advice if you experience significant pain, persistent bleeding, blood in your urine or other unexpected symptoms after a session.
How Much Does Shock Wave Therapy for ED Cost in Australia?
The cost depends on the clinic, the device, the number of sessions and whether consultations or follow-up appointments are charged separately.
There is no single national price for this procedure. Overseas prices should not be treated as a reliable guide to what an Australian clinic will charge. Before committing to a course, ask for a written breakdown covering:
| Cost factor | What to check |
| Initial consultation | Is the assessment charged separately? |
| Individual sessions | What is the fee for each appointment? |
| Full treatment course | What is the total price for all planned sessions? |
| Follow-up appointments | Are progress reviews included? |
| Additional treatment | Would further sessions incur extra fees? |
| Rebates | Is any rebate available for your particular circumstances? |
Do not assume that private health insurance or Medicare will cover the procedure. Check directly with the provider and the relevant organisation before paying.
It is also sensible to compare the total cost with other ED treatments that have better-established evidence.
Shock Wave Therapy vs Other ED Treatments
Shock wave therapy is one of several approaches being investigated or used to address erectile dysfunction. The right option depends on the underlying cause, personal preferences and individual health circumstances.
| Treatment | How it works | Evidence and role |
| Oral ED pills | Help improve the blood-flow response involved in erections | Established treatment option for many men when prescribed appropriately |
| Vacuum erection devices | Use suction to draw blood into the penis | Non-drug option that can help produce an erection |
| Counselling or sex therapy | Addresses psychological, emotional or relationship factors | May help when these factors contribute to ED |
| Lifestyle changes | Address factors such as inactivity, smoking, excess weight and stress | Can support general health and erectile function |
| Low-intensity shock wave therapy | Uses acoustic energy to target penile tissue | Research is ongoing; benefits and the best protocol remain uncertain |
ED can have several causes, including vascular problems, diabetes, hormonal factors, medication effects and psychological concerns. Identifying the cause can help a clinician recommend a suitable approach rather than choosing a treatment based on advertising alone.
Do not stop prescribed erectile dysfunction medicine or change your treatment plan without speaking with your healthcare professional.
Is Shock Wave Therapy for ED Worth Considering?
Whether the procedure is worth considering depends on your circumstances and how you weigh the uncertain potential benefits against the cost.
It may be of interest to men researching non-invasive approaches, particularly when blood-flow problems are thought to contribute to ED. However, it should not be presented as a proven replacement for established treatment.
Before making a decision, consider these questions:
- Has a clinician assessed the likely cause of your erectile dysfunction?
- Can the provider explain the difference between focused shock waves and radial pressure waves?
- Are the expected benefits supported by reliable research on the device being offered?
- Is the full cost clear, including follow-up appointments?
- Have you discussed established alternatives and their respective benefits and risks?
A consultation with a GP or urologist can help you understand the options that best fit your health needs.
Final Thoughts
Shock wave theraphy for ED is an area of ongoing research, with studies suggesting that some men may experience improvements in erectile function. However, uncertainty remains about the size of the benefit, how long it lasts and which treatment protocol is most suitable.
If you are experiencing persistent erection difficulties, start with a GP or qualified urologist rather than choosing a procedure based on promotional claims. A proper assessment can help identify contributing health factors and clarify which treatments have the strongest evidence for your circumstances.
FAQ
1. Does shockwave therapy really work for erectile dysfunction?
Shockwave therapy may improve erectile function in some men, particularly those with blood-flow-related ED. However, research findings vary, and the Cochrane review found that the available evidence was of low certainty. The size of any improvement and its importance to an individual remain uncertain. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about established treatment options and whether this approach is appropriate for you.
2. How much does shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction cost?
The cost varies by clinic, device and number of sessions. For example, Dr Love in Australia lists a fee of $250 per individual session, excluding the initial consultation, while the University of Utah Health reports US$400–$500 per session. These are provider-specific prices, not national averages, and overseas prices are not directly comparable with Australian fees. Ask for the full course cost and check whether any rebates apply.
3. Which therapy is best for erectile dysfunction?
The most suitable treatment depends on the cause of ED, your health and your preferences. Options include prescription medicines such as sildenafil or tadalafil, vacuum erection devices, counselling when psychological factors contribute, and other treatments recommended by a clinician. Shockwave therapy remains an area of ongoing research, so it should not automatically be considered better than established options.
4. How long does shockwave therapy take to work for ED?
Some studies have reported changes in erectile function during the first few months after treatment. However, the time needed to notice an improvement varies, and research has not established a reliable timeline for everyone.
5. How long do the results of shockwave therapy for ED last?
The duration of any improvement remains uncertain. Some research suggests that benefits may persist beyond the initial treatment period, but differences between studies make long-term results difficult to predict. More research is needed to determine whether additional sessions are beneficial.
6. Is shockwave therapy for ED painful?
The procedure is generally performed without an incision or general anaesthesia. Some men report mild discomfort or a tingling sensation during treatment, although individual experiences vary. Ask the treating clinician what sensations and side effects to expect with the specific device being used.
7. Who is a suitable candidate for shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction?
Research has focused particularly on men with mild to moderate ED associated with reduced blood flow. However, a person's likely response cannot be predicted reliably from these findings. A GP or urologist can assess possible causes, review existing conditions and medicines, and discuss whether this approach is appropriate.
8. Does shockwave therapy increase penis size?
Shockwave therapy for ED is intended to investigate potential improvements in erectile function, not penis enlargement. There is insufficient reliable evidence to support claims that it permanently increases penis size.
Years of Experience: 12+ Years Education: Master of Sexology - [University of Sydney] MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) - [Torrens University Australia] BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology -…
