How Shockwave Therapy Treats Erectile Dysfunction
Focused shockwave therapy, also called Li-ESWT, uses low-intensity acoustic waves to trigger repair in the blood vessels of the penis. Unlike the radial shockwave devices used in some clinics, focused shockwave reaches deeper into penile tissue, which is why it is the technology used for treating erectile dysfunction. In Reading, treatment is delivered using a Swiss DolorClast device. Clinical trials, including sham-controlled studies, show meaningful improvement in erectile function for most suitable men, and unlike medication, the effects build over time rather than wearing off after a few hours. The treatment is non-invasive, needs no anaesthetic, and fits around normal daily life.
Restoring Natural Blood Flow With Li-Eswt
The waves prompt the growth of new blood vessels in penile tissue, a process known as neovascularisation. As circulation to the area improves, the tissue can fill and stay firm more reliably. This is a physical change in the tissue itself, which is why the benefit can continue well after the course ends.
Addressing The Cause Rather Than Masking The Symptom
ED tablets work for a few hours and then wear off, leaving the original problem untouched. Shockwave therapy targets the poor circulation that sits underneath most cases, so it aims for improvement you carry with you. For men who want to reduce or stop relying on medication, that difference is the whole point. Where it helps, it can be combined with pelvic floor work through our men’s health physiotherapy service.
What A Course Of Treatment Looks Like
Shockwave therapy is delivered as a planned course rather than a single session, and the schedule is set out clearly at your first appointment. Sessions are short and comfortable, and you can return to your usual activities straight afterwards. The two points below cover the questions men ask most about timing.
How Many Sessions You Can Expect
A course is six sessions in total, including your first session, delivered as a course rather than as separate packages. Your physiotherapist will confirm the exact spacing for you once your assessment is complete, based on your diagnosis and how you respond as treatment progresses.
When Results Tend To Appear
Because the treatment works by changing the tissue itself, improvement is gradual rather than instant. Most men notice the clearest change from around six weeks after finishing the course, and for some it keeps developing for a further twelve weeks. Staying sexually active during and after treatment helps you gauge that progress.
Who This Treatment Is Suited To
Shockwave therapy suits men whose ED is driven by reduced blood flow, which accounts for a large share of cases. It is a strong option if medication has helped little, caused side effects, or if you simply prefer a drug-free approach. It is also used in recovery after prostate surgery, where erectile function is frequently affected. If you are unsure whether it fits your situation, a men’s health assessment will give you a clear answer.
Visiting Our Reading Clinic
Our Reading clinic sits at The Atrium on Scours Lane and has been treating patients here since 2014. If you have searched for shockwave therapy near me or an ED clinic near me, this is it: assessments and shockwave treatment are both carried out on site by Adrian Wagstaff, Advanced Practice Physiotherapist (HCPC: PH61117), rather than being outsourced or run by different practitioners. Appointments are private and self-referred, so there is no need to see your GP first, and we work with the major private medical insurers. You can arrange an assessment online at any time. To learn more about the location and facilities, see our Reading clinic page.
Does shockwave therapy for ED hurt?
Clinical trials, including sham-controlled studies, show meaningful improvement in erectile function for most suitable men, and results are strongest when the right candidates are selected rather than treating everyone the same way. One trial specifically looked at men who had not responded to PDE5 inhibitor tablets and found that a proportion became responders after shockwave therapy, which is encouraging if medication alone has not worked for you. As with most treatments in this area, results vary by cause and individual health, which is why an assessment comes before any course begins.
Can I keep taking my ED medication during treatment?
Yes, you can continue your usual PDE5 inhibitor medication, such as sildenafil or tadalafil, while you have shockwave therapy. The two do not conflict, and staying sexually active actually supports your progress. Many men find they rely on tablets less as the treatment takes effect. Your physiotherapist can talk through what to expect as that happens.
Can I continue having sex while I'm being treated?
Absolutely, and we encourage it. Testing how things are working is one of the best ways to track improvement, so carrying on as normal is helpful rather than a problem. There is no recovery downtime between sessions. If anything feels different, make a note and mention it at your next appointment.
How long do the results last, and can I repeat the course?
Results can last well over a year when the underlying causes are managed. We follow a use it or lose it principle, so staying active and looking after your cardiovascular health protects the benefit. A top-up can be given after six months, and some men repeat the full course each year. Your physiotherapist will advise on the timing that suits you.
How do I get to your Reading clinic?
The clinic is at The Atrium, Scours Lane, Reading, and has been established at this location since 2014. There’s plenty of on-site parking, and it’s easy to reach from across the Reading area. You can book your assessment online whenever suits you. If you need directions or have any access questions, contact the clinic before your visit.