Men’s Health PT is physical therapy for uniquely male pelvic conditions, often occurring as a consequence of prostate treatments. That pelvic floor muscles even exist may be news to many men. Not only are there muscles in the pelvic area, but they are also critically important to maintain sexual function, urinary continence, and lower back health. To meet these demands they must be trained like other muscles in the body (i.e., the glutes, calves, and biceps). When pelvic floor muscles are affected by surgery, trauma or repetitive stress, physical therapy may be indicated for one of many pelvic health disorders
Testicular Pain
Pain arising in the testicles could be from a variety of sources. When medical red flags are ruled out (cancer, kidney stones, hernia), a proper physical therapy diagnosis is warranted. This can involve examining the function of both the pelvic floor muscles as well as several muscles around the hips and back that can refer to the pelvis.
Erectile Dysfunction
Studies have shown that training of the pelvic floor muscles can decrease symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction. In the same way muscles in our hip are responsible for helping us move our legs, there are pelvic muscles responsible for maintaining pressure and blood flow necessary for an erection.
Urinary Incontinence
Due to surgical trauma to nerves or from age-related changes, the muscles of the pelvic floor can become weakened, which can lead to urinary incontinence. In these cases, proper physical therapy management is essential in retraining these muscles. Often this involves the utilization of sonography (ultrasound) to visualize and provide feedback to the patient.
Hard Flaccid Syndrome
Often misdiagnosed, sensory changes in the penis resulting in a constant semi-rigid penis. Because the penis is painful and “stuck in limbo”, it can have significant effects on sexual function and social life. Physical therapy can be part of the management of this disorder.
Athletic Pelvic Dysfunction
May times men with chronic hamstring and groin pain will be unaware the symptoms could be coming from the pelvis. In these instances, a thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis can lead to the resolution of persistent symptoms.
Male pelvic disorders are often an under-recognized source of physical and emotional stress in men. One in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. At Bethesda Physiocare we are determined to bring awareness to the community and promote the highest quality Men’s Health physical therapy.
