We aren't guaranteed much as adults, but if there's one thing we can count on, it's that our bodies change as we get older. For men, that's especially true. One day you're lifting heavy weights and nailing your cardio regimen without having to stretch before or after. And then, in what seems like the blink of an eye, you start to slow down a little. You begin to notice aches and pains in places that weren't there before. You can't just go out for a night on the town, imbibe until your heart is content, and expect to wake up refreshed.
And while headaches and achy joints can be treated with ice and anti-inflammatory medicine, other aspects of aging aren't as easy to treat. You've probably guessed at this point what we're talking about: erectile dysfunction, or ED for short. When brought up to most men, those are two words that cause a guttural reaction of fear and trepidation.
While just about every man fears ED, millions suffer from it - almost 10% of the male population between the ages of 40 and 70. So, if you're beginning to have trouble performing in the heat of the moment, you're definitely not alone. You may be experiencing symptoms like:
Trouble Achieving an Erection
Trouble Maintaining an Erection
Lower Libido
Less Sexual Pleasure
Premature Ejaculation
Inability to Achieve Orgasm
However, at Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine, we understand that stats won't do anything to address the stress and anxiety you're facing in relation to erectile dysfunction. You need a viable solution - a science-backed treatment that doesn't require strange pills or invasive surgeries. As a fully integrated multidisciplinary clinic in Mount Pleasant, we have what you've been searching for: softwave therapy for ED in Sullivan's Island, SC.
To fully grasp the benefits of using soft wave therapy for erectile dysfunction, you must first understand what causes ED to begin with. Put simply, erectile dysfunction is the inability to get an erection and keep it throughout sexual intercourse. You should know that it's not uncommon if you have erection trouble. However, if your inability to "get it up" becomes a common occurrence, you may be suffering from ED.
Erectile dysfunction doesn't just affect your penis - it also affects your wellbeing and relationships. It can lower your confidence, cause a large amount of stress that affects your ability to work, and may even cause contention with your partner.
You hear it all the time - as men get older, they often lose the ability to get erect. But why? As men age, the blood vessels in their penis start to fill up with micro-plaques, causing them to deteriorate. When these blood vessels deteriorate, it's more difficult for them to have steady blood flow. And that's the key to ED - having the constant blood flow to get and keep an erection. That's where the science-backed effectiveness of Softwave therapy swoops in to save the day.
Shockwave technology has been around for decades. It has been used at the highest-level research and medical facilities like the Cleveland Clinic and Memorial Sloan Kettering. However, Softwave therapy is a more refined, effective way to treat erectile dysfunction and also advance tissue healing.
Softwave therapy works by using electrohydraulic spark gap technology at its core. Its innovative design features a parabolic reflector applicator that produces very effective, low-intensity shock waves that are unfocused. Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine's Softwave applicator spreads energy to a large area of both superficial and deep tissue, creating a biological response that kickstarts your body's natural healing process.
For men suffering from ED, it is a revolutionary breakthrough treatment that doesn't require harmful surgeries or side effects from pills. In fact, it has been FDA approved for many uses, including improved blood flow, which is often the root cause of erectile dysfunction.
Book AppointmentUnlike some more traditional treatment options, Softwave therapy gets right to the crux of the ED issue. It uses shock wave technology on a cellular level, helping to naturally heal body parts, like the penis. Some of the most common benefits of Softwave therapy include:
Additionally, Softwave treatments don't require much prep, don't have any sketchy side effects, don't require any numbing agents or anesthesia, and result in little-to-no recovery time. Sound too good to be true? Contact Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine today to learn just how effective Softwave therapy is for our patients!
Softwave therapy works by using efficient, effective shock waves that cause biological regeneration processes that heal your body using its own healing factors. It works like this: Softwaves are created via a high-energy electrical discharge in water. The voltage is discharged between the plus and minus tips of an electrode. The spark gap or arching causes an equalization of voltage between the opposing tips of the electrode, which causes a hot plasma bubble. This bubble explodes and distributes in every direction, compresses the surrounding water, and generates a pressure > 10 MPa within nanoseconds.
To sum up, Softwave therapy uses low-intensity, unfocused energy that is delivered by a reflector in parallel waves. These waves help open up the blood vessels in your penis, allowing more blood to flow. At Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine, our team of expert physicians will develop a personalized Softwave therapy plan based on your body and needs. With the right number of treatments, you should be able to achieve and maintain firm erections as you did in your prime.
A Softwave therapy procedure averages 10-15 minutes but may be longer depending on treatment area and diagnosis. A gel is applied to the surface area to be treated. The applicator produces pulses as the clinician moves around the treatment area. During therapy, communication with your provider is necessary to identify treatment areas and monitor progress.
Once treatment is over, you may resume your normal day-to-day activities. In fact, most patients can have Softwave therapy while on their lunch break. You don't have to worry about recovery time, side effects, or any downtime at all.
More than 50% of men will experience erectile dysfunction at some point in their lives. If you're over the age of 30, have been suffering from ED, and don't want to rely on pills or surgery, Softwave therapy may be for you. That's doubly true if you've tried traditional treatments like Viagra and even surgery but didn't get the results you hoped for. Many academic studies about shockwave therapy for ED state that this revolutionary technology is successful where PDE5 inhibitors fail.
In fact, many urologists consider Softwave therapy the most promising ED treatment on the market. The truth is, even if you're not battling ED, men can use Softwave therapy as a preventative way to keep the magic flowing in the bedroom. Some of the key reasons to choose Softwave therapy over less effective, traditional treatments include:
If you're curious why Softwave treatments are so popular for ED, the answer is simple. Prescription drugs like Cialis and others that "treat" ED often come with less-that-savory side effects. At best, these effects are just something patients have to deal with. At worst, they can disrupt your day-to-day schedule and may prevent you from enjoying a healthy life. Sure, some men swear by the "little blue pill," but most guys aren't aware of the hidden risks with drugs like Viagra. The following side effects can be common in both short and long-term circumstances:
If you're suffering through erectile dysfunction, it's crucial to understand why it's happening. The primary reason for ED is a lack of blood flow to the penis, which makes erections difficult to get and keep. Rather than relying on prescription and gas station pills for a quick fix, more men are using softwave ED treatment in Sullivan's Island, SC for an all-natural solution minus the side effects. With Softwave therapy, you don't have to live with ED, and you don't have to suffer from scary side effects from popping too many pills.
Book AppointmentSoftwave therapy is often a more effective solution for men with ED than similar but less effective treatments using pressure waves. Softwave therapy from Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine uses acoustic pulses or unfocused shockwaves with fast and steep rise times and high positive pressure. Our unfocused wave design makes it possible to spread energy to a larger area, which affects deep and superficial tissue. By targeting a larger area, a more potent biological response is often achieved, initiating your body's natural healing factors.
By comparison, radial pressure waves use acoustic pneumatic pulses with low steeping effects, slow rise times, and large negative pressures. Radial waves are shallower than the shockwaves used in Softwave technology and focus energy and pressure at the surface of the applicator.
Here's a quick breakdown of the differences between softwave therapy for ED in Sullivan's Island, SC, and radial pressure waves:
If you're new to the world of Softwave therapy, chances are you've got some lingering questions you need answered. We'll do our best to answer a few of those questions here for your convenience.
Q. Has the FDA approved softwave therapy for ED in cityname, state?
A. Yes - Softwave therapy is FDA 510(k) approved for:
Q. Is softwave therapy painful?
A. Softwave therapy does not require surgery or any invasive form of treatment. With that said, some patients describe minimal discomfort or pain during our softwave treatments. Should this occur, your medical specialist will make necessary adjustments. Usually, patients do not have to endure any pain at all and only experience a pulse or tapping feeling on their skin.
Q. How long is a Softwave treatment session?
A. An individual session only takes five to fifteen minutes. It's typically recommended that patients have treatment once a week for three to five weeks. The length and frequency of your Softwave therapy sessions will be determined after you visit our medical clinic for a comprehensive evaluation.
Q. How long does it take for Softwave therapy to work?
A. Every patient we treat is different, and as such, will have different treatment recommendations. Often, patients notice the results of Softwave therapy after the first session. However, for the longest-lasting effects, most patients need between three and four treatments, with a week of non-treatment after every session.
Q. Can I combine Softwave therapy with other treatments from Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine?
A. It's hard to give a definitive answer to this question since every patient is different. It's important for you to have a full evaluation to determine the scope of your needs and the appropriate therapies. However, Softwave therapy often works very well with other treatments. In fact, other therapies offered at our medical clinic like massage therapy and chiropractic care can make Softwave treatment even more effective.
Remember - our team at Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine is always happy to answer any questions you may have about ED or our ED treatments. Give us a call today - it would be our pleasure to get to know you better!
Unlike some wellness clinics, our experienced providers work together to optimize treatment for men suffering from ED. We always strive to make sexual wellbeing an accessible part of your everyday lifestyle.
That's why, at Elite Healthcare Physical Medicine, our mission is simple: to correct the root cause of your erectile dysfunction by taking a comprehensive, total body approach to healing and treatment. We want to address your ED problem without having to resort to chemical-based medications or unnecessary surgeries. Instead, we focus on all-natural, effective solutions like shockwave therapy for ED in Sullivan's Island, SC.
By discovering what's best for each person's individual body and needs, we can help create a healthier future for those in our community through our holistic physical medicine practices. Contact our office to learn more about Softwave therapy and how we can solve the underlying causes of your unique ED situation.
Book AppointmentJust a twenty minute drive from Charleston’s stoic steeples and stately single houses, Sullivan’s Island, with its storybook cottages and pristine beach, is the charmingly sun-bleached answer to the Holy City’s pomp and circumstance. Sullivan’s is also a secret locals are keen to keep. The small ...
Just a twenty minute drive from Charleston’s stoic steeples and stately single houses, Sullivan’s Island, with its storybook cottages and pristine beach, is the charmingly sun-bleached answer to the Holy City’s pomp and circumstance. Sullivan’s is also a secret locals are keen to keep. The small island measures only two and a half miles long, but the town punches well above its weight when it comes to natural beauty, historical significance, curb appeal, and places to eat, drink, and shop. Here are the best things to do on Sullivan’s Island.
The Best South Carolina Beaches For A Relaxing Lowcountry Getaway
With 2.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean-fronting shoreline, Sullivan’s Island’s main draw is its pristine shoreline, a wide sandy stretch prime for sandcastle-building and sunbathing. Called “Stations” as a nod to the trolley line that once ran in the area, the island’s wayfaring points also serve as easy meet-ups for beach access. Each station has its perks: If you want to stay close to the main drag of Middle Street, with all of its restaurants and shops, Stations 21, 22, and 22 ½ are your best bets; If you want to be a little farther from the action and close to the lighthouse, try Station 18 ½.
Connecting the Charleston Light (the iconic black-and-white lighthouse) to Fort Moultrie (the Revolutionary War-era fort that’s now a National Historic Park), this two-mile trail winds through the island’s maritime forest for a different perspective of the spot’s natural beauty.
The Lowcountry is shrimp country, and at this fish-camp-inspired restaurant, you’ll find the best local ones, pulled straight from nearby Shem Creek. Try them fried with garlic aioli or stirred into fried Carolina Gold rice with fresno chilis and XO sauce. If you’ve got a thirsty crew, wash it all down with the Big Fish Jug of Margs.
sullivansseafoodandbar.com; 2019 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
With a menu inspired by local, seasonal ingredients and surrounds informed by the area’s maritime culture, the self-proclaimed “eclectic Southern” restaurant isn’t dishing what you’d necessarily expect for beach-town fare. That’s due largely in part to its chef, two-time James Beard Award nominee Jacques Larson, whose menu includes house-made pastas and “Lowcountry frites,” polenta fries served with comeback sauce. Not in the mood to come off the beach for dinner? Pick up a wood-fired pizza for a sunset picnic on the sand.
theobstinatedaughter.com; 2063 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29483
(Editor’s note: As of January 24, 2025, The Obstinate Daughter is temporarily closed due to a kitchen fire.)
The sister restaurant to concepts first born in St. John and St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, The Longboard celebrates seafood in its freshest, lightest forms, with dishes like poke bowls, ceviche, and sushi wraps. Don’t miss Oyster Happy Hour (weekdays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.), with its rotating selection of the bivalves, served raw, grilled, dressed, or as shooters.
thelongboardsullivans.com; 2213-B Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
When you’ve tired of seafood, settle into this local favorite for a pulled pork sandwich or perfect smoked wings. Better yet, order “The Board” for your crew of beach bums; it’s a sampler of wings, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, and turkey, served with a trio of their memorable sides, like the mac & cheese or collard greens. Be sure to try their signature sipper, the Gamechanger, a frozen fruity concoction with two kinds of rum. They even sell the mix, should you want to make it at home.
hometeambbq.com; 2209 Middle St.; Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
So named for Edgar Allen Poe, the famed poet who was stationed on Sullivan’s Island with the U.S. Army in 1827 and 1828, the gastropub is the town’s destination for burgers and fish tacos. Roll off the beach in your cover-up and flip flops for lunch at one of the umbrella-shaded picnic tables out front.
poestavern.com; 2210 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
Rethink the kitschy airbrushed-tee-filled surf shops you’re accustomed to seeing in beach towns. Generally speaking, that’s not the vibe on Sullivan’s, but especially not at this thoughtfully curated boutique, where Vogue veteran and owner Katie Poole sells effortlessly stylish women’s clothing (think hand-blocked prints and flirty silhouettes) and accessories, along with some kids’ offerings.
bennieandcoco.com; 2213 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482
Forget the stuffy gallery experiences you’ve had in the past. At this spot on the island’s main drag, you can shop everything from paintings to ceramics. And given that the welcoming spot highlights pieces at a variety of prices, you’re sure to find a memorable keepsake of your time in the Lowcountry. And should you make a detour to Charleston, be sure to visit its downtown counterpart Dare Gallery, on Broad Street, which has a contemporary sculpture garden.
sandpipergallery.net; 2201 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC, 29482
Shop handmade jewelry by SCAD grad Ashley Reid Martin, along with other giftable finds, like natural beauty finds and hand-painted greeting cards, at this bright and airy outpost that’s positioned in the middle of all the action.
shopgoldbug.com; 2205-E Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
This special community gathering spot has a little something for everybody, peddling a wide-ranging collection of art and home and garden goods. Plus, they offer plant-potting services for the green-thumb-challenged and host creative events like sourdough workshops and Mahjong lessons.
makers-post.com; 2019 B. Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
First settled in the late 17th century, Sullivan’s Island has its own Historic District that’s listed on the National Register. Stroll Middle Street, I’on Avenue, and Central Avenue between Stations 17 and 18 ½ to see private homes that once served as both military properties and residential dwellings and were built between 1870 (like the Dr. John B. Patrick House on Middle Street) through about 1950 (like the Fort Moultrie Chapel on Central Avenue, built in 1944). For true, stop-in-your-stroll cottage charm, make sure to walk past circa-1900 1808 I’On Avenue—a prime example of the architectural type. (Just don’t stare or linger for too long! It’s a private residence.)
Built in 1962 and officially called the Charleston Light, the black-and-white lighthouse that rises above the beach has become synonymous with the island—with most locals referring to it as the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse. While it’s not open to the public, you can read the explanatory markers on your way to the beach at Station 18 ½. It also makes for a great photo opp from the sand.
Still under construction as the Revolutionary War began, this coastal garrison (the island’s first) was notably built from palmetto logs and sand. Even so, the British advance was thwarted by the defensive efforts there, saving Charleston from a 1776 occupation (it eventually fell in 1780) and it was renamed for its victorious Commander William Moultrie. The original fell into disrepair, as did the second that was built in its place. Finally, a third brick iteration was completed in 1809. It served as a garrison for the Federal troops, and once they abandoned it, by the Confederacy. It was modernized in the 1870s and was used until World War II. Operated by the National Park Service, it’s worth a visit for anyone interested in military history, as it’s been restored to showcase its various functions from 1809 to 1947.
nps.gov; 1214 Middle St., Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — It’s a New Year’s tradition unlike any other.Thousands of people across the country are preparing to usher in the new year with a quick (and we mean quick) dip into icy waters — including here along the South Carolina coast.One of the first polar bear plunges dates back to the early 1900s when the L Street Brownies in Boston took the plunge into the icy cold Dorchester Bay in 1904. The club has been celebrating the new year with a plunge ever since, according to ...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) — It’s a New Year’s tradition unlike any other.
Thousands of people across the country are preparing to usher in the new year with a quick (and we mean quick) dip into icy waters — including here along the South Carolina coast.
One of the first polar bear plunges dates back to the early 1900s when the L Street Brownies in Boston took the plunge into the icy cold Dorchester Bay in 1904. The club has been celebrating the new year with a plunge ever since, according to NationalToday.com.
While many take the dip for fun, some plunge into freezing waters to raise money for charity. It’s also believed the dips boost the immune system, activate endorphins, and reduce stress.
Ocean temperatures in Charleston Harbor are currently in the low to mid-50s. Partly cloudy skies are expected on Jan. 1 with temperatures in the mid-60s.
Whether you plan to join in the festivities yourself or just want to support those brave swimmers, dive into 2025 with these polar plunges around the Charleston area:
Dunleavy’s Pub has organized a polar plunge in support of the Special Olympics of South Carolina each year for the past three decades. The organization provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in myriad Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Participants will gather on the beach around 1:30 p.m. on New Year’s Day with the plunge to happen at 2 p.m.
The pub, located at 2213 Middle Street on Sullivan’s Island, will open at 9 a.m. for plungers to enjoy refreshments before the main event.
Splash into the new year dressed as one of Charleston resident Bill Murray’s iconic characters at the 11th annual Bill Murray Look-a-Like Polar Plunge on Folly Beach.
The plunge will take place beachside at the Tides Hotel (1 Center Street) at noon following an 11 a.m. costume contest. Prizes for Best Overall Bill Murray, Best Girl, Best Guy, and Best Team/Family Costume will be awarded.
The Kiawah Island Golf Resort will hold its annual polar plunge in front of the Sanctuary Hotel (1 Sanctuary Drive) at 11:45 a.m.
The event is free and open to the public. Towels will not be provided.