Written by Dr. Eric Wood, ND, MA
Erectile dysfunction is a condition rarely spoken of that impacts an immense portion of the male population. With the NIH estimating almost 30 million men affected, it is time we step up and start talking about impotence. While medication is the go-to treatment for many sufferers, recent advances in alternative approaches are gaining popularity. One such approach involves the application of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation aka TENS. Although many are familiar with this modality for pain relief elsewhere in the body, few are aware of its potential benefits in erectile dysfunction.
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TENS is a non-invasive form of electrical stimulation that stimulates the peripheral nervous system imparting therapeutic benefits. Available research for the use of TENS in the treatment of erectile dysfunction is fairly limited and inconclusive. That said, the evidence that is available thus far is positive. Anecdotal reports support these claims with many people reporting good success with appropriate use. When applied properly, the treatment is safe and helps address both the symptoms and potential causes of the dysfunction.
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Most would assume that if you’re treating erectile dysfunction, you should apply the electrodes to the genitals. Although it is unlikely to cause any injury, the skin in that region can be extremely sensitive and even a small stimulus could lead to discomfort. Instead, most professionals recommend placing the electrodes near the pelvic floor muscles or perineum. The perineum is the thin layer of skin located between the genitals and the anus. The pelvic floor is a multi-layered group of muscles that support the bladder, urethra, and bowels. In addition to its structural role, the pelvic floor also assists in sexual function and helps men achieve an erection. Attaching the electrodes in this region can provide a supportive base and encourage blood flow without directly stimulating the penile tissue.
When the TENS unit is applied, you can expect to feel a tingling sensation that increases as you turn up the intensity on the device. The application should remain a positive sensory experience and if you feel pain or discomfort, make sure to reduce the intensity. Due to the sensitivity of the area, expect that the therapeutic intensity will likely be lower than what you would typically use elsewhere on the body.
TENS offers users multiple benefits including an improvement in local circulation. Although the exact mechanism of this increase in blood flow is still unknown it is hypothesized that the applied stimulation either helps release vasodilator compounds, inhibits vasoconstriction, or affects its change through contracting muscles. As it relates to erectile dysfunction, TENS’ ability to improve circulation can make a big difference in the body’s ability to enhance blood flow to the penis.
The nervous system also plays a significant role in the body’s ability to produce and sustain an erection. Similar to almost all functions in the human body, the nervous system must send appropriate signals to elicit a desired outcome. In the case of sexual health, nerve signals must be transmitted to the genital region to stimulate an erection. With TENS application, the modality is able to stimulate the local nerves leading to improved performance. Depending or not whether a man has had injury or trauma to that area and damaged the nerves (for example from radiation due to prostate cancer), the TENS unit may or may not be helpful, note.
In some cases of ED as well as other urologic disorders, painful erections can occur. TENS can help alleviate this pain similar to how it would help on other parts of the body. Please note however that painful erections are not a normal occurrence and you should consult your medical team to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
A final benefit of TENS is its non-invasive, drug-free approach. With minimal to no side effects and a high degree of convenience you can use it wherever life takes you.
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If you’re ready to try this technology for yourself, our favorite product on the market today is the ProMed 360 Digital 5-Mode TENS Unit. This device features 5 unique modes with varying settings to match an individual’s needs. With a 70-hour battery life and adjustable frequency, intensity, and duration, it is both reliable and adaptable. The electrodes deliver comfortable impulses stimulating endorphin production and reducing reliance on invasive alternatives. Improve your confidence and quality of life with the ProMed-360.
Erectile dysfunction shouldn’t hold you back from living your best life. With growing anecdotal and evidence-based backing, TENS can help stimulate erections and improve overall sexual wellness. That said, if you haven’t had an evaluation to understand what may be causing your ED problems, it is advisable to see your qualified practitioner for such. This may involve circulation problems, nerve damage, and/or hormone deficits and the more you know, the better you can support your health and your sexual function.
For more information relating to the treatment of erectile dysfunction check out our expert-curated blog, Caregiver University. While you’re there, feel free to browse through our full listing of products geared toward the treatment of impotence.
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Dr. Wood is a licensed naturopathic doctor in Washington D.C. and founder of Visionary Health. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Wood is a professor at John Patrick University in the Integrative and Functional Medicine Department as well as an adjunct professor at the American College of Healthcare Sciences in Holistic Nutrition. He began his career as a specialty physician for two leading supplement US companies, Neuroscience Inc. and Life Extension. Over his fifteen-year career in integrative and holistic medicine, he has worked in diverse capacities including as an educator; writer; medical advisor, consultant and formulator for supplement companies and treatment centers in the US and the EU; public speaker; and clinician. He has long been a practicing advocate of lifestyle medicine, fitness and mind body medicine approaches initially spurred by aging family members not getting help from traditional medicine and is passionate about innovating and bringing natural and integrative medicine to the masses!
