Most people associate pelvic floor dysfunction with women’s health issues like pregnancy and postpartum recovery, but the pelvic floor is just as important for men. Pelvic floor dysfunction can cause or contribute to a number of complaints, including erectile dysfunction.
The pelvic floor – the group of muscles, ligaments, and connecting tissues that support the bladder, rectum and reproductive organs – provides important support for not just the pelvis itself, but the back and core, and is tied directly to sexual health in all bodies.
The pelvic floor and men’s health
Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common sexual health complaints among men. While it is often linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or psychological factors, research has shown that the strength and function of the pelvic floor is an important contributing factor.
Fortunately, pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for ED which addressed underlying issues and gets results.
Understanding men’s pelvic health
The pelvic floor forms a hammock of sorts at the base of the pelvis, holding the organs above in place. These muscles play an important role in supporting the bladder and bowel, enabling normal urinary and fecal control and elimination, and assisting in sexual function.
When the pelvic floor muscles become weak, overactive, or uncoordinated, dysfunction can occur. For men, this may look like:
- Urinary leakage or urgency
- Constipation or incomplete emptying of bowels
- Pelvic pain
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
There are many factors which may contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, including straining due to constipation, prostate surgery, obesity, aging, poor posture or prolonged periods spent sitting.
Erections are sustained due to a combination of blood flow, nerve signals, and muscle control. The muscles of the pelvic floor are directly involved in maintaining an erection and achieving ejaculation. Weak pelvic floor muscles may cause challenges in maintaining an erection, while overactive pelvic floor muscles may limit blood flow and/or cause pelvic pain that interferes with sexual performance.
A growing body of research shows that pelvic floor training can improve the ability to achieve and maintain erection, including improving endurance and satisfaction. This practice can improve continence and sexual function while decreasing pelvic pain – and can provide a major confidence boost.
How does pelvic floor physical therapy help?
Pelvic floor physical therapy addresses the core issue – the weak or overactive pelvic floor. A qualified pelvic health physical therapist will begin by evaluating muscle tone, strength, coordination, posture, and breathing patterns.
By educating the patient on anatomy and contributing lifestyle habits and providing strengthening or relaxation practices, the therapist supports the patient in healing themselves. Biofeedback and hands-on manual techniques in the pelvic muscles, hips, and lower back can help relax tense muscles and provide relief of muscle-based pain.
With pelvic floor physical therapy, you can:
- Improve muscle strength and endurance
- Enhance blood blow
- Correct overactivity or tension
- Restore confidence
And, it’s a drug-free and non-invasive solution for erectile dysfunction.
If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction with no obvious cause, or have been dissatisfied with other treatment options, it just may be time to try pelvic floor physical therapy.
Body Restoration Physical Therapy is conveniently located in Roslyn Heights, Long Island. Contact us today to find out more and book your first appointment.