Whispered conversations about problems rarely fix them. And when it comes to men’s health, issues such as pelvic floor dysfunction hit below the belt, literally and figuratively.
But pelvic floor dysfunction is a problem that millions of men struggle with throughout the world. So in honor of Men’s Health Month, we wanted to shed light on a very real and essential topic.
What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in Men?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, prostate, and rectum in men.
The pelvic floor controls bowel and urinary habits as well as contributes to sexual function. An inability to isolate and coordinate the muscles of the pelvic floor can result in issues such as:
- Urinary or fecal incontinence
- Urinary frequency and urgency
- Reduced, delayed, or intermittent stream
- Pain during urination
- Frequency at night
- Post void dribble
- Constipation
- Pelvic pain
But pelvic floor dysfunction can also lead to pain, including pain in the groin, genitals, hip, rectum, pubic bone, tailbone, and low back. It can also cause issues with sexual function, such as the ability to have or keep an erection (erectile dysfunction), as well as pain during or after intercourse.
Why Does Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Happen?
For men, issues related to the pelvic floor can be caused by a variety of factors. However, some of the most common causes include:
- Post prostatectomy
- Post lower extremity total joint replacement (hip/knee replacement, etc.)
- Prostatitis
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Aging
- Low back pain
How is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Treated?
Thankfully, pelvic floor dysfunction is treated nonsurgically. Physical therapy is the first-line treatment due to its efficacy and quick results. In addition, physical therapists that specialize in pelvic health have advanced post-graduate training in the understanding, diagnosing, and managing of symptoms and pain in the pelvic region.
These specialists use various treatments such as:
- Biofeedback. A treatment used to relay real-time information about pelvic floor activity through visual feedback.
- Manual therapy
- Strengthening and coordination training
- Education
- Behavioral modifications
It is important to note that pelvic floor dysfunction in men is not uncommon. The pelvic health specialists at Alpine Physical Therapy are the most experienced and sought-after experts in Central Oregon. Our facilities are modeled to have private treatment rooms to ensure privacy. Curious about what appointments look like? Appointments with a physical therapist usually occur every week or two. In between appointments, patients work on an individualized home program.
To learn more about pelvic floor dysfunction treatment for men, contact our Westside office to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you meet your health and wellness goals.