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Erectile Dysfunction Treatment in Waterlooville

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A Physiotherapy Approach to Improving Erectile Function

Erectile dysfunction—the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity—affects approximately one in five men in the UK. While it becomes more common with age, it can occur at any stage of adult life. While medications like sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) are widely known, they act as a temporary “workaround” rather than addressing the underlying causes, and they are not suitable or effective for everyone.

Physiotherapy offers a targeted, physiological approach. By focusing on the musculoskeletal and vascular components of function—specifically pelvic floor strength, blood flow, and myofascial tension—specialist treatment can significantly improve erectile function, either as a standalone therapy or to enhance the effectiveness of medication.

Specialist Male Health in Waterlooville

At The Physiotherapy Centre, erectile dysfunction is treated by Yves De Vos, a specialist male pelvic health physiotherapist. Yves is one of the very few clinicians in the Hampshire and Sussex region offering a combined approach that integrates pelvic floor rehabilitation with Focused Shockwave Therapy and EMTT.

We understand the sensitive nature of these symptoms. Appointments are held in a completely confidential, professional clinical environment. We regularly support patients from across Waterlooville, Cosham, Havant, Petersfield, Portsmouth, and the wider region who are looking for a long-term, non-invasive solution to regain their function and confidence.

The Role of the Pelvic Floor and Blood Flow

The pelvic floor muscles (specifically the ischiocavernosus and bulbocavernosus) play a critical role in the mechanics of an erection by supporting the blood vessels and helping to maintain pressure. If these muscles are weak, or conversely, if they are too tense (hypertonic), they can impede function.

Furthermore, “vasculogenic” ED—caused by reduced blood flow—is the most common physical cause. Our treatment protocols are specifically designed to address both the muscle quality and the blood supply within the pelvic region to restore natural function.

Erectile Dysfunction

Understanding Erectile Dysfunction

How Erections Work

An erection is a vascular event — it depends on adequate blood flow into the erectile tissue (corpora cavernosa) of the penis, combined with the ability to trap that blood under pressure. The pelvic floor muscles, particularly the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles, play a critical role in maintaining rigidity by compressing the veins that drain blood from the penis.

When any part of this system is compromised — reduced blood flow, weakened pelvic floor muscles, nerve damage, or hormonal imbalance — erectile function is affected.

Common Contributing Factors
  • Vascular factors: Reduced blood flow to the pelvic region is the most common cause of ED, particularly in men with cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and obesity. ED is now recognised as an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease, as the blood vessels supplying the penis are smaller than those supplying the heart, so they are affected first.
  • Pelvic floor weakness: The pelvic floor muscles are essential for maintaining erection rigidity. Weakness in these muscles can lead to difficulty maintaining erections, even when blood flow is adequate.
  • Pelvic floor overactivity: In some men, particularly those with concurrent chronic pelvic pain, the pelvic floor muscles are too tense rather than too weak, which restricts blood flow and contributes to sexual dysfunction.
  • Neurological factors: Nerve damage from prostate surgery (radical prostatectomy), diabetes, or spinal conditions can impair the nerve signals needed for erection.
  • Post-prostatectomy ED: Surgical removal of the prostate carries a significant risk of erectile dysfunction due to damage to the nerves and blood vessels that pass close to the prostate gland. Pelvic floor rehabilitation and shockwave therapy can support recovery of function.
  • Psychological factors: Performance anxiety, stress, depression, and relationship difficulties can contribute to or maintain ED. While physiotherapy addresses the physical components, psychological support may also be beneficial.
When to See Your GP

ED can be an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. If you have not had a cardiovascular risk assessment recently, it is worth discussing your symptoms with your GP to rule out underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. Physiotherapy treatment for ED can proceed alongside medical management. 

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How We Treat Erectile Dysfunction

Your first session with Yves is a comprehensive, 45 to 60-minute evaluation. We move beyond the symptoms to look at the mechanics: are your pelvic floor muscles weak and in need of strengthening, or are they overactive and restricted? Yves will perform a detailed assessment of your pelvic floor function, medical history, and contributing factors such as hip mobility and cardiovascular health. This clinical deep-dive ensures we are targeting the root cause—whether it is muscular, vascular, or a combination of both.
Based on your assessment, Yves will prescribe a targeted rehabilitation programme. If weakness is identified, we focus on progressive strengthening of the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles. Research published in the British Journal of General Practice found that targeted pelvic floor exercises produced significant improvement in erectile function for 40% of men, with an additional 34% seeing a notable benefit. If your muscles are overactive, we shift the focus to relaxation techniques, myofascial release, and breathing patterns to “unlock” the pelvic floor.
Low-intensity Focused Shockwave Therapy is currently one of the most promising treatments for vasculogenic ED (ED caused by reduced blood flow). Unlike medication, which provides a temporary chemical change, shockwave therapy stimulates neovascularisation—the formation of brand-new blood vessels within the tissue. By improving blood flow at a structural level, we address the underlying physical cause of the dysfunction.
A typical course involves six sessions delivered over three to six weeks. The treatment is entirely non-invasive, performed in a private clinical setting, and requires no anaesthetic or downtime.
At our clinic, we enhance the effects of shockwave therapy by pairing it with EMTT. This technology generates a high-energy magnetic field that stimulates cellular repair and reduces myofascial tension throughout the pelvic region. By providing both mechanical (Shockwave) and electromagnetic (EMTT) stimulation, we create a more powerful environment for tissue healing and vascular improvement than either treatment could provide alone.
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What to Expect at Your First Appointment

At The Physiotherapy Centre, we understand that ED is a physical health issue that deserves a professional, clinical solution. Your initial 60-minute consultation with Yves is designed to provide a clear diagnosis and a discreet, evidence-based path forward. 

Practicalities for your visit:

  • Professional Environment: Your consultation lasts 60 minutes and takes place in a dedicated private treatment room. Yves will take a thorough history of your symptoms, sexual function, and medical background.
  • Step by Step Assessment: Every part of the physical assessment is explained in detail before it begins. You are in complete control of the session at all times.
  • What to bring: Please bring any relevant urology reports, PSA or testosterone blood test results, and a list of any current medications. This helps us ensure your treatment plan is safe and integrated with your overall health.
  • No Referral Needed: You do not need a GP referral to access this specialist service. The session is straightforward, confidential, and focused entirely on your recovery.
We believe in realistic expectations. While medication provides an almost immediate (though temporary) effect, physiotherapy and shockwave therapy work by remodelling tissue and improving blood flow, which takes time.

Yves will provide an honest assessment of your prognosis. Most men follow a protocol spanning six to twelve weeks. While many notice improvements in morning erections or firmness within the first few sessions, the goal of this treatment is long-term structural change. Many men find that simply having a concrete plan and a clear explanation of the physiological “why” behind their symptoms reduces the anxiety that often complicates ED, leading to better results and restored confidence. 

Pricing and Appointments

  • Initial Assessment £100 (60 minutes)

  • Follow-Up Session £250 (30 minutes)

  • Block of 6 Sessions £1,095

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Conveniently Located in Waterlooville

  • The Physiotherapy Centre 96 London Road, Widley, Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO7 5AB
  • Opening Hours: Mon: 8.00–7.00 | Tue: 8.00–7.30 | Wed: 8.00–8.00 | Thu: 8.00–7.00 | Fri: 8.00–5.00 | Sat: 8.30–1.00
  • We serve patients from Widley, Purbrook, Waterlooville, Cosham, Havant, Petersfield, and Portsmouth. The clinic is on the old A3 / London Road, just north of Portsdown Hill, near the Hampshire Rose pub. The No. 8 bus (Bushy Mead) stops just up the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physiotherapy really help with erectile dysfunction?

Yes. Research supports the use of pelvic floor muscle training for ED, particularly where weakness is a contributing factor. When combined with shockwave therapy, which addresses the vascular component by promoting new blood vessel growth, the results can be significant. Physiotherapy can be used alongside medication or as an alternative for men who prefer a non-pharmacological approach.
Yes. Multiple clinical studies and meta-analyses have demonstrated that low-intensity shockwave therapy improves erectile function in men with vasculogenic ED. The treatment promotes the formation of new blood vessels (neovascularisation) in the erectile tissue, improving blood flow at a structural level. It is one of the few treatments that addresses the underlying vascular cause rather than providing temporary symptom relief.
Yes. Pelvic floor rehabilitation and shockwave therapy can be used alongside PDE5 inhibitors. In fact, some men who have not responded adequately to medication alone find that combined treatment improves their response. Others are able to reduce or discontinue medication after a course of shockwave therapy.
A typical treatment course involves six to twelve sessions, depending on the severity and contributing factors. Shockwave therapy is usually delivered in a course of six sessions over three to six weeks. Pelvic floor rehabilitation may continue for a longer period. Yves will outline a realistic plan at your first appointment.
Pelvic floor exercises are not painful. Shockwave therapy may cause mild discomfort during the treatment, but it is well tolerated by the vast majority of men. EMTT is painless. There is no significant post-treatment discomfort or downtime.
Not unless you ask us to write to them. All appointments are completely confidential. Your records are not shared with anyone without your explicit consent.
Not always — psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and depression can cause or contribute to ED. However, in men over 40, a physical component (particularly reduced blood flow) is present in the majority of cases. Yves will assess the contributing factors and advise on whether psychological support would complement your treatment.
Yes. Post-prostatectomy ED is common due to nerve and blood vessel damage during surgery. Pelvic floor rehabilitation can improve the strength of the muscles involved in maintaining erections, and shockwave therapy may support vascular recovery. Treatment can begin once your surgeon confirms it is safe to start, typically six to eight weeks after surgery.
While ED becomes more common with age, it is not an inevitable or untreatable consequence of getting older. Age-related changes in blood vessels and pelvic floor muscles contribute, but these are addressable. Many men achieve meaningful improvement in erectile function with the right treatment, regardless of age.
No. You can contact the clinic directly and book an appointment with Yves. No GP or urology referral is required.
Team

Meet the Team Supporting Your Recovery

Yves De Vos
Male Pelvic Health Specialist