Peyronie's Shockwave Therapy
If you are reading this, it is likely because you, or someone you know, suffers from Peyronie’s Disease (PD) and is looking for a solution that will help overcome the problems associated with it.
First of all, you should be reassured that PD is a relatively common condition affecting up to 10% of men at some point in their lives. It can happen to any man of any age, although occurrence rates increase with age, with the average age of onset being 53 as reported by the Journal of Andrology in 2013.(1) The condition is characterised by the development of fibrous plaques within the penile tissue, leading to penile curvature, pain, and difficulties with sexual function.
Historically, PD was treated with a number of different therapies, including oral medications, topical creams, and injections. In some cases, surgical procedures such as plication (sutures to correct curvature), grafting (replacing scar tissue with healthy tissue), or penile prosthesis implantation were considered. However, these surgical treatments often carried the risk of complications and could result in a reduction in penile length, which deterred many men with PD from pursuing such invasive options.
Today, shockwave therapy has become an alternative treatment for PD, offering a non-invasive, non-surgical approach. This non-invasive and non-surgical approach is important because a man’s penis is made up of a complex array of anatomical structures and physiological systems that enable him to pass urine, get an erection, and engage in sexual intercourse and invasive treatments may cause more problems than those being treated.
The primary structures involved in the sexual and urinary functions include the corpora cavernosa, corpus spongiosum, and various blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. The corpora cavernosa are two chambers that run along the length of the penis and fill with blood during an erection, leading to rigidity. The corpus spongiosum surrounds the urethra, which allows for the passage of urine and semen during ejaculation.
If any of these systems are damaged, broken, or if a man is advancing in age, obtaining a satisfactory and rigid enough erection for penetration can become increasingly challenging. Just one or a combination of problems, such as vascular issues, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, psychological factors, or underlying medical conditions, can make it very difficult for him to achieve and maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse.
Our clinical team at MANSMATTERS are the UK’s leading provider of Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT) and a further four ground-breaking clinical technologies for men who suffer from Erectile Dysfunction, Chronic Pelvic Pain, and Peyronie’s Disease. Our pioneering protocols provide effective solutions that include straightening of curvature, a reduction in pain with improved erectile function, without any loss in penile sensitivity or length. Contact us today to discover how our experienced consultants have successfully restored a vibrant and pain-free sex life to countless patients and their partners.
Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy – Clinical Data
Shockwave therapy was originally used to treat conditions such as kidney stones (renal calculi) and musculoskeletal injuries, including tendinitis and plantar fasciitis. The therapeutic effects of shockwaves in these areas led to further exploration of its potential applications in other medical fields, including urology and sexual medicine. As researchers and clinicians discovered the regenerative and vasculogenic properties of shockwave therapy, it became an innovative approach for treating PD, erectile dysfunction, and other conditions affecting sexual health.
Shockwave treatment for Peyronie’s disease was first described in 1989. The authors hypothesised that the effect on the plaque would be similar to shock wave lithotripsy, breaking the plaque into small particles. The introduction of Li-ESWT regained new interest, and the first case-control study using Li-ESWT was performed in 2000, reporting promising results. Since then, several studies have been published, leading the European Urological Association guidelines to recommend this treatment for Peyronie’s related penile pain. (2)
Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy involves the use of low-intensity sound waves directed at the affected area of the penis. These sound waves stimulate healing processes, improve blood flow, and break down the fibrous plaques associated with PD.
As far back as 2003 the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reported on the efficacy of Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy saying that, the main benefits of ESWT were the alleviation of pain and reduction of angulation of the penis and that in one comparative study, 50% of patients (10/20) receiving ESWT experienced a decrease in curvature of at least 30%, plus evidence suggesting some improvement of sexual performance. (3)
Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy is typically administered over a series of sessions, and its effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual response.
One of the advantages of Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy is its non-invasive nature, meaning it does not require surgical incisions or anesthesia. This makes it a more appealing option for men who are reluctant to undergo surgery or are seeking alternatives to invasive procedures.
Another advantage of Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy is the assistance it provides in the reduction of pain that many men with PD suffer from as well as in the curvature in their penis. A study in the Asian Journal of Andrology published in 2022 demonstrated an improvement in penile curvature from 31° to 17° using Low Intensity ESWT (LiESWT) compared to previous studies, along with a reduction in penile pain and plaque size in patients treated during the acute phase of PD. (4)
We have been providing Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy for clients with Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and PD for several years and our urology specialists have refined the techniques used based on the ages of our clients and the severity of their condition using Focused ShockWave Therapy (FSWT). Some men approach us after reading medical research and call into question the effectiveness of Shockwave Therapy.
However, there are different types of Shockwave equipment and some of the early machines used 10 or 20 years ago were only partially effective. If in any doubt you should be reassured by this article in the Sexual Medicine Review published in 2020 which looked at 6 ESWT devices used on patients with ED and/or PD but with huge differences regarding the EFD and the total energies applied and commented that, “There is growing evidence that concentrated treatment protocols and increasing energies may yield better results. In this context, it may be argued that at least some of the published studies were markedly underpowered.” (5)
This is crucially important as explained in the, FAQ’s below and furthermore not all FSWT equipment is created equally. Just five years ago standard focussed had an energy transfer of 0.3, good focused, machines have an energy transfer of 0.5 but Peyronie’s treatment needs an energy transfer of 1.24. We use the latest Swiss engineered Shockwave equipment which is superior to all other machines and our clinicians have substantial experience obtaining the optimum results from the treatment based on using the therapy on hundreds of men.
In addition to shockwave therapy, other non-invasive treatments for PD, such as traction devices, penile modeling, and medications, may also be considered. These approaches aim to reduce penile curvature, improve symptoms, and enhance sexual function without the need for surgery.
We have a number of focused shockwave protocols for people suffering from Peyronie’s disease and the correct treatment pathway will be prescribed after an initial consultation.
Most patients will be prescribed a Standard Programme to straighten the penis and improve erections.
Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy Standard Programme
Our clinical expert will undertake a thorough clinical assessment. This will involve using the latest techniques to accurately locate the plaque, reveal how big it is, and determine the best course of treatment.
Prior to this we will ask all patients to remove excess pubic hair prior to the first consultation to enable a more efficient probe skin contact.
Following your consultation, and if eligible with no contradictory conditions, you will be prescribed a course of focused shockwave therapy treatments.
There are no negative side effects with shockwave therapy. The treatment is non-invasive and requires no sedation.
We have treated hundreds of men with Peyronie’s Disease with our non-invasive treatment programme, and you can read some of their reviews on our Peyronie’s Disease Case Studies page and further handwritten copies when you visit our clinic.
Whilst the majority of patients experience immediate improvements after the initial programme of treatment, Peyronie’s Disease is a very stubborn condition and in some instances is resistant to all non-invasive treatments and non-surgical treatments.
Combined Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy Programme & ED Therapy
Many patients who have endured Peyronie’s Disease, have also experienced a decline in sexual function. In many instances this decline started before the onset of Peyronie’s Disease.
We combine FSWT for both the area afflicted with Peyronie’s Disease, combined with treating the whole penis for erectile dysfunction. FSWT stimulates angiogenesis, which is the development of new bloods vessels, and neurogenesis, which stimulates new nerve tissue. Both lead to stronger, harder and longer lasting erections.
All consultations take place in a private room to ensure your privacy, discretion, and confidentiality.
Peyronie's Shockwave Therapy FAQ's
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive medical procedure that utilises high-energy sound waves to treat various musculoskeletal conditions and promote tissue healing. The term “extracorporeal” means outside the body, indicating that the shockwaves are generated outside and then transmitted into the body.
Focused Shockwave Therapy (FSWT), also known as Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT), is a variation of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) that uses a different type of shockwave technology. While both FSWT and ESWT are non-invasive procedures that utilise shockwaves to treat various conditions, they differ in their mode of delivery and depth of penetration.
FSWT uses focused shockwaves that are generated outside the body and focused on a specific target area. These shockwaves are characterized by their higher energy and more concentrated focus. The focused shockwaves penetrate deeper into the tissues and are able to target specific structures with greater precision.
LISWT, as the name suggests, utilises shockwaves with lower energy levels compared to FSWT and ESWT. These low-intensity shockwaves were used in the initial research studies before more powerful equipment became available.
Focused shockwave treatment for Peyronie’s disease offers several advantages. It is effective, painless, and very safe, with no known side effects. Unlike other treatment options associated with Peyronie’s disease, such as medications, injections, or surgery, focused shockwave treatment minimizes the risk of adverse reactions, pain, and prolonged healing.
Yes, Peyronie’s Shockwave Therapy is an incredibly safe treatment for Peyronie’s disease. No harmful side effects or reactions have been documented involving focused shockwave in the treatment of Peyronie’s disease.
Yes, there are certain contraindications (a reason for a person to not receive a particular treatment or procedure because it may be harmful) for focused shockwave treatment in Peyronie’s disease. These include the presence of any active cancers in the local area, a history of radical prostatectomy, the presence of a penile prosthesis, a blood thinning disorder requiring anti-coagulant medication (consultation with your doctor is advised), and hypogonadism (reduced sex hormone production within the testes).
The number of focused shockwave treatment sessions required for Peyronie’s disease varies on an individual basis. Generally, the more chronic the condition, the more sessions are needed. However, an average treatment program consists of between 6 to 10 sessions, typically scheduled once per week.
During focused shockwave treatment for Peyronie’s disease, the penile plaque build-up is targeted. The penis is placed on a special support, and the shockwave equipment handset is placed over the target area. A gel is used to allow the shockwaves to safely pass between the shockwave machine and the penis.
Each session of focused shockwave treatment for Peyronie’s disease typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes. The exact duration may vary depending on the treatment protocol used by your urology specialist.
Focused shockwave treatment usually provides long-lasting improvements for Peyronie’s disease patients. However, the extent and duration of the results may vary among individuals. Regular follow-up appointments and maintenance sessions may be recommended to sustain the benefits over time.
Yes, focused shockwave treatment can be combined with some other treatment options for Peyronie’s disease. We will discuss these with you during your initial consultation and as your treatment and outcomes progress.
Peyronie's Shockwave Therapy Client Reviews
(1) Peyronie Disease in Younger Men: Characteristics and Treatment Results
(2) Shock Wave Therapy for Peyronie’s Disease – Learning From the Past and Looking Into the Future
(3) Extracorporeal shockwave therapy for Peyronie’s disease
(4) Low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy for Peyronie’s disease: a single-center experience
(6) A meta-analysis of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for Peyronie’s disease
