How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Support Your Prostate Cancer Treatment

Prostate health is essential for men’s overall wellness, especially as they age. For men over 50, the risk of prostate cancer increases significantly, with about 1 in 8 men affected in their lifetime (American Cancer Society, 2023). At our Melrose, MA clinic (just north of Boston), we see the powerful benefits that pelvic floor physical therapy can have in helping men through each stage of prostate cancer treatment, from preparation to recovery.

Why Consider Pelvic Floor PT for Prostate Health?

Pelvic floor PT isn’t just for women—men can benefit greatly, too (we all have a pelvic floor!). The pelvic floor muscles are essential for bladder control, bowel function, and sexual health. For men dealing with prostate cancer, strengthening and caring for these specific muscles can help reduce side effects, support recovery, and improve quality of life (Centemero et al., European Urology, 2010).

How Pelvic Floor PT Can Help at Every Stage

Before Treatment (Pre-hab)

Preparing your body and mind for prostate cancer treatment can lead to better outcomes:

1. Strengthen Pelvic Muscles: Prepares the pelvic floor to handle the stress of surgery or radiation.

2. Reduce Leakage Risk: Studies show that men who do pelvic floor PT before surgery have 50% less urinary leakage afterward (Patel & Yao, 2020).

3. Improve Recovery Speed: Pre-hab can help you regain continence and pelvic function up to 50% faster (Centemero et al., 2010).

4. Boost Confidence: Learn and practice techniques to reduce anxiety, control muscle activation, and prepare for recovery.

During Treatment

While undergoing treatment, pelvic floor PT can help with:

1. Managing Pain and Tension: Therapy includes relaxation and pain management techniques, such as manual therapy.

2. Maintaining Muscle Function: Adaptive exercises and biofeedback training keep the pelvic muscles active, preventing atrophy.

After Treatment (Rehab)

After treatment, pelvic floor PT can aid significantly in recovery:

1. Regaining Continence: Targeted exercises help restore bladder control and reduce leakage.

2. Supporting Erectile Function: Penile rehab exercises can support sexual health and function, a common concern post-treatment.

3. Minimizing Pain and Scar Tissue: Techniques like soft tissue mobilization and stretches reduce scar tissue buildup and help ease discomfort.

4. Enhancing Quality of Life: By improving urinary, bowel, and sexual function, pelvic floor PT can help you regain a sense of normalcy and confidence.

Additional Benefits and Tools Used in Pelvic Floor PT:

1. Biofeedback: A technique that uses sensors to visually show you how well you're activating and controlling your pelvic floor muscles

2. Bladder Training and Lifestyle Advice: We guide you through bladder control strategies and recommend dietary tips to support healing.

3. Personalized Exercises: A structured program tailored to your needs ensures a sustainable approach to recovery and strength building.

Supporting Your Prostate Health Journey

A proactive approach with pelvic floor PT can make a significant difference. From reducing side effects to speeding recovery, pelvic floor PT is a valuable part of your care team. If you’re considering prostate cancer treatment or want to improve prostate health, please email us at info@bostonpelvicpt.com to learn more or visit www.bostonpelvicpt.com to schedule an appointment. We also offer virtual visits for your convenience.