Is Acoustic Wave Therapy for ED Right for You? [+ Checklist]

Highlights  

• Acoustic wave therapy for erectile dysfunction is a promising new treatment.

• AWT uses sound waves to cause mechanical damage to blood vessels and tissues, triggering the formation of new blood vessels and better blood flow.

• It may take 6-12 sessions to achieve erection-boosting effects with acoustic wave therapy.

• AWT doesn’t work for everyone, and its effects typically aren’t permanent.

• FDA-approved medications like Viagra are viable alternatives to AWT.

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Acoustic wave therapy (AWT) is an experimental approach to treating erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis. Also known as shock wave therapy, low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or sound wave therapy, AWT works by directing sound into the tissues of your penis. 

The mechanical vibration the sound causes shakes up the blood vessels and may even damages them slightly. In response, your body rushes to repair the damage and improve blood flow. 

How Acoustic Wave Therapy Works

Doctors have used high-intensity shock wave therapy to break up kidney stones for years. This technology has allowed them to replace a highly invasive surgery with a noninvasive option. Medium-intensity shockwave therapy helps bones heal after orthopedic surgeries.

It’s clear that shockwave therapy works and can cause the body to regenerate. Now, doctors hope low-intensity acoustic wave therapy can improve your erectile function. 

By directing sound waves into the penile tissue, AWT affects the body in two ways:

Direct mechanical stress. The vibrations caused by the sound waves damages the tissues slightly. It works in much the same way sound travels to our ears. Sounds vibrate the air, and the eardrums receive these vibrations, which our brains translate to information. 

When sound vibrations spread through your penis, the sound shakes things up as it would shake your eardrums. It is a high-intensity sound at a special frequency, so you can’t hear it.

AWT pulls and pushes on the innards of your penis, stressing the walls of blood vessels and the connective tissues. 

Turbulent flow in the blood vessels

All this stress causes the body to react. To heal what it sees as damage, it increases the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This triggers angiogenesis, the creation of new blood vessels. These new vessels allow more blood to flow through the penis, leading to stiffer and longer-lasting erections. 

In addition to VEGF, this erectile dysfunction treatment also causes the body to recruit stem cells, which it uses to build new blood vessels and repair tissue. 

The AWT Procedure: What to Expect

An acoustic wave therapy procedure for ED lasts about 15-20 minutes. Doctors use a wand-like device connected to a sound wave generator to stimulate the blood vessels and tissues of your penis. The treatment is painless. 

Before the treatment, your doctor will apply a numbing gel to your penis. The base of your organ and various areas around the shaft are the prime targets of acoustic wave therapy treatment. You may feel some tingling or tapping as the device fires, but you shouldn’t feel any pain. 

Some shock wave therapy sessions deliver around 1,500 shocks, while others use around 5,000. This inconsistency makes it difficult for researchers to compare and analyze results. 

Your treatment schedule may differ depending on the severity of your ED and what your doctor deems suitable. 

• You may have once-a-week treatments for six consecutive weeks.
• Some doctors may treat patients twice a week for three weeks, then have a three-week pause and repeat the treatment for three more weeks.
• Others may require 12 consecutive treatment sessions. 

The acoustic wave therapy cost for a single session is around $350, but it may cost as much as $400 to $500, depending on the protocol. It can add up to more than $5,000 for 12 sessions. 

The Pros of AWT: Benefits

The main advantage of acoustic wave therapy for erectile dysfunction is that it can improve or restore erectile function without drugs. It also treats the problem causing erectile dysfunction, unlike some FDA-approved medications. Some of its other benefits are: 

• It’s a noninvasive ED treatment.
• It doesn’t require surgery or anesthesia.
• It’s relatively affordable.
• Research shows that it doesn’t have side effects over several years.
• AWT is effective for men whose erectile dysfunction is a result of poor blood flow, as well as for those who recently stopped responding to oral medication.
• AWT is suitable for most men. However, it only works for those whose ED is related to poor blood flow. It doesn’t work for patients with low testosterone or the elderly.      

The Cons of AWT: Risks and Side Effects

Acoustic wave therapy for erectile dysfunction is safe, even when used long term. It has few side effects, and most aren’t severe (though some may be). Swelling and bruising of the penis are two possible acoustic wave therapy side effects. In rare cases, treatments may also cause blood in the urine and infection of the penis. 

Some of the other disadvantages of acoustic wave therapy for erectile dysfunction are: 

• It requires a series of treatments.
• Results usually aren’t permanent.
• After two years, the benefits of the treatment persist in only about half of patients.
• It may not be effective for all men.
• Its cost may be prohibitive for some men. 

What Recent Research Says About Acoustic Wave Therapy for ED

The lack of standardized equipment and treatment routines means it’s not easy for researchers to determine definitively how effective acoustic wave therapy is for ED. Recent research suggests, however, that the procedure is safe and effective for many patients.

• A 2019 study concluded that AWT is safe and it works. The study admitted its limitations: It didn’t feature a sham treatment (control) arm, and it didn’t exclude the possibility of psychological ED in test subjects.
• A 2021 literature review found that while AWT seemed to work for some, it didn’t work for many others.
• A 2022 study found AWT to be clinically effective and safe. 

Standardization Is Needed

Overall, study results show that acoustic wave therapy can boost erectile function without significant side effects. Procedure and equipment standardization would help doctors draw more scientific conclusions. 

Currently, there are three types of acoustic wave generators: 

• Electrohydraulic
• Electromagnetic
• Piezoelectric 

They work differently and create potentially different outcomes. To complicate matters further, some machines use radial acoustic waves, while others use focused acoustic waves. Radial waves produce longer and shallower shockwaves in human tissue, while focused waves create more intense and focused acoustic waves. 

Acoustic Wave Therapy Reviews

Many men who have undergone acoustic wave therapy for ED are keen to share their experiences, positive or negative, through social media. 

Here’s what they say: 

• “Acoustic wave therapy worked wonders for my ED! I’m so glad I tried it.”
• “I had acoustic wave therapy for my ED. And it was amazing! I felt like a new man afterward.”
• “Acoustic wave therapy is the best thing that ever happened to me! My ED is gone!”
• “I had acoustic wave therapy for my ED. And it was so much better than taking pills.”
• “Acoustic wave therapy saved my marriage! I can’t recommend it enough!” 

For some, the therapy didn’t work:

• “I tried acoustic wave therapy for my ED. And it didn’t work at all. I’m so disappointed.”
• “Acoustic wave therapy is a scam. Don’t waste your money.”
• “I had acoustic wave therapy for my ED. And it was so painful I couldn’t finish the treatment.”
• “Acoustic wave therapy is a complete waste of time and money.”
• “I had acoustic wave therapy for my ED. And it didn’t help at all. I ended up having surgery instead.” 

These are comments from real people, but they only provide anecdotal evidence about the efficacy of the treatment. Keep in mind that these are opinions only; they are not scientific conclusions about acoustic wave therapy risks and benefits. 

Checklist: Is AWT Right for You?

Acoustic wave therapy can improve your response to erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra and Cialis. It can even improve erectile function on its own. Research shows it’s effective in almost 40% of patients, with results lasting for 24 months or more. 

Are you part of that 40%? Will it work for you? Is it the right ED treatment for you? Complete this checklist to find out. 

Understanding of Acoustic Wave Therapy

• Do you understand what this ED treatment involves and how it works?
• Do you know that AWT uses low-intensity acoustic waves to improve penile blood flow in a non-intrusive way?
• Are you aware that doctors will apply a numbing gel to your penis and use a wand-like device on it as part of the treatment?
• Do you understand that AWT may or may not work for you, depending on the cause of your ED? 

The Effectiveness of Your Current ED Treatment

• Do you suffer from severe erectile dysfunction or only experience it now and then?
• Are you currently treating your ED?
• If yes, how well does your current treatment work?
• Do you know that AWT therapy may be effective in 63.5% of men who don’t respond to PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra?
• Do you take either prescription or over-the-counter drugs to improve your erectile function? If so, are they working for you?

Do you prefer a drug-free approach to ED Treatment?

•  Are you concerned about the potential side effects of ED drugs?
• Would you rather choose a drug-free, non-invasive approach?
• Are you comfortable with doctors touching your penis with a wand-like device? 

Medical History and Health Conditions

• Are you under or over the age of 65?
• Have you asked your healthcare provider about acoustic wave therapy for ED?
• Do you have heart disease, kidney stones, Peyronie’s disease, or other health conditions that may make you unsuitable for AWT treatment?
• Do you have underlying medical conditions that may cause ED and that you may want to address before resorting to AWT?
• Do you take any medications that might interact with AWT?
• Do you take medications that may cause erectile dysfunction?
• Do you suffer from hypogonadism (low testosterone)?

Awareness of the Latest Research

• Are you familiar with the latest research on acoustic wave therapy for ED?
• Do you understand that we still know little about the long-term results of AWT for ED?
• Are you aware that research suggests AWT results may only persist in about 50% of patients after two years? 

Lifestyle Considerations

• AWT requires a series of treatments. Do you have time to undergo treatment? 
• Do you know how much a session may cost you?
• Do you understand that insurance may not cover your acoustic wave therapy treatment for ED?
• Do you have an alternative financial solution to cover the costs of the treatment? 

Expectations and Success Rates

• Do you know the reported success rates for acoustic wave therapy for ED?
• Are your expectations realistic?
• Do you know that the treatment may take several months to produce results?

Sensitivities and Allergies

• Are you aware of any allergies you may have to the substances doctors use for AWT?  

Use this checklist to determine whether you’d make a suitable candidate for ED treatment with acoustic waves. Consult with your doctor before you commit to AWT. 

What Your Results Mean

Understanding of acoustic wave therapy: For many of us, erectile dysfunction is a deeply disruptive condition with far-reaching psychological effects. Therefore, we are prone to making rushed, impulse-based decisions about its treatment. If the checklist tells you that you are well informed, you are more likely to make a sound decision about AWT. If you don’t understand the treatment, learn more about it before considering it.

Current ED Treatment Effectiveness: If your ED is severe and won’t respond to treatment, AWT is not likely to help you, although your doctor may consider it as a last-resort option. From what we know, acoustic wave therapy seems to work best for patients whose ED is mild or moderate, or whose prescription medications no longer work well.

If your current ED treatment works, stick with it. Never start another treatment or alter your current one without consulting with your doctor.

Preference for Non-Invasive, Drug-Free Treatment: If you don’t like to take drugs, are leery of their side effects, or prefer the drug-free route for another reason, AWT may be a good option for you. Remember, however, that you may not be comfortable with the procedure.

Medical History and Health Conditions: Your age and medical history play a significant role in determining your suitability for AWT. People over 65 often struggle with other conditions and are more likely to suffer from low testosterone. AWT is less effective for this age group. Talk to your doctor about your health history and your suitability for AWT. Only your healthcare provider is qualified to give you definitive answers.

Awareness of Latest Research: Being aware of the latest developments on AWT for ED makes you a well-informed candidate for the therapy. It also means you understand the procedure and its implications. 

Lifestyle Considerations: An AWT treatment course for ED consists of a series of 6-12 sessions over several months — and it’s not cheap. Your insurance may not cover it. Only consider it as an ED treatment option if you can afford investment in time and money. If you know you can’t afford AWT, explore other options like the tried-and-true, FDA-approved medications.

Expectations and Success Rates: For now, we can’t proclaim AWT as a cure for ED.  For some men, it works well. For others, its effects are insignificant or lacking. If you understand the scientifically determined success rates of the treatment, you can save yourself some disappointment. Being well informed, you are in a position to make a realistic decision about the treatment.

Conclusion

This checklist is a guide to determine your suitability for AWT. Don’t use it to replace professional medical advice. Even if you find yourself a good candidate for AWT based on this guide, consult with your healthcare provider before committing to treatment. If you find that AWT isn’t right for you, eDrugstore can help.

FDA-approved drugs like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra work, and they have helped millions of men worldwide. We carry these drugs and their money-saving generic equivalents — sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, respectively, as well as Stendra and the generic version of Staxyn. 

Acoustic Wave Therapy FAQ

If you have questions about acoustic wave therapy for ED, you may find your answers here.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Acoustic Wave Therapy? 

AWT is a good option for men who don’t want to take drugs or have surgery to reclaim their erectile function. Acoustic wave therapy works best for patients whose ED is due to blood flow problems. If low testosterone is the cause of your ED, AWT may not work for you. AWT may also not work for those who have stopped responding to ED drugs like Viagra and Cialis. To find out whether you’re a good candidate for acoustic wave therapy for ED, use the checklist at the end of this article. 

How Many Treatments Do I Need? 

A treatment course typically involves 6-12 treatments to improve ED, depending on the severity of the condition.   

What Are the Side Effects of Acoustic Wave Therapy? 

Based on research, we can state that not many ED patients experience side effects from AWT. Those who do are most likely to experience bruising, swelling, and mild pain. 

What Are the Risks of Acoustic Wave Therapy? 

Acoustic wave therapy risks are few and rare. Research has found the procedure to be safe, even in the long term. 

Is Acoustic Wave Therapy Permanent?  

In 50% of patients, the erectile function-boosting effects of AWT wear off in about two years. You may have to repeat the treatment. 

How Much Does Acoustic Wave Therapy Cost? 

The cost of a session varies from $350 to $500, depending on a host of factors. Because the treatment usually involves multiple sessions, it can be quite expensive. 

Does Insurance Cover Acoustic Wave Therapy? 

AWT is not an FDA-approved treatment for ED, so government insurance plans don’t cover it. The same is true of some private insurance plans. The FDA has approved some devices used for shockwave therapy but not for the treatment of ED.

What Alternatives Are There for Acoustic Wave Therapy? 

Surgery and FDA-approved ED medications, like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra, are always options. If you don’t want to take drugs or have surgery, talk to your doctor about whether AWT can help you. If drugs don’t bother you, ED medications may be your best evidence-backed options. 

eDrugstore Can Help 

FDA-approved erectile dysfunction medications work. They are scientifically backed, proven, and reliable. At eDrugstore, we have an in-house team of U.S.-licensed doctors who offer online consultations and can provide you with the prescriptions you need to buy these medications online. 

Don’t let ED ruin your quality of life. Order your medications now. We deliver quickly and discreetly.