Pelvic floor rehabilitation post prostatectomy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy after a prostatectomy helps regain bladder control and addresses erectile dysfunction through exercises and other therapies. A physiotherapist can create a personalized plan, which may include pre- and post-operative pelvic floor muscle training (Kegels), bladder retraining, and, in some cases, treatments like focused shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction.
What pelvic floor physiotherapy involves
- Pelvic floor muscle training: A physiotherapist will guide you on how to perform exercises (like Kegels) to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. This can significantly improve urinary incontinence and support bladder control.
- Bladder retraining: This involves a combination of exercises, tracking bladder use, and scheduling toilet breaks to improve bladder control and reduce urgency or leakage.
- Individualized assessment: Each person’s recovery is unique, so a physiotherapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment to create a treatment plan tailored to your specific symptoms and needs.
When to start
- Pelvic floor exercises can be started before surgery or soon after the catheter is removed.
- Starting pelvic floor rehabilitation before surgery is recommended by some organizations, as it can help with recovery.
Why it’s important
- The prostate gland sits below the bladder, and its removal can weaken the surrounding pelvic floor muscles and surrounding structures.
- This can lead to issues like urinary incontinence (leaking), urgency, and erectile dysfunction.
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy helps by strengthening the muscles that support bladder and sexual function.
Getting started
- It is highly beneficial to see a physiotherapist, as they can provide guidance and ensure you are performing exercises correctly.
- You can start with basic exercises on your own, but a physiotherapist can help you get more benefit from your training.
I use 3 groups of physiotherapy practices depending on your location:
1. Wesley Hospital Physiotherapy
Women and men’s physiotherapy | Allied health | The Wesley Hospital
2. Bodyworks Physiotherapy in Kallangur – Rashiq Patel
3. Coral Coast Physiotherapy in Bargara, Bundaberg – Reuben Wharerau
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