Prostate Surgery and how a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist can help

Prostate cancer and surgery can be a difficult journey both emotionally and physically for men and their family’s.  Loss of bladder control is expected after prostate surgery and is distressing. Fortunately we know that bladder control will improve within 3-12 months post prostatectomy with physiotherapy. During removal of the prostate your main control mechanism may be impaired, leading to bladder leakage. Prior to surgery identifying the Pelvic Floor Muscles can also be a challenge.

Common Symptoms:

•  Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze or laugh
•  Urine loss when moving from sitting to standing, walking or exercising
•  Leaking urine on the way to the toilet
•  Going to the toilet frequently
•  A weak urine stream
•  Wet pads heavier with increased physical activity

Possible Causes Of Bladder Problems:

•  Radical Prostatectomy Surgery
•  Bladder problems before prostate surgery
•  Bowel problems: Constipation and straining
•  Low fluid intake and bladder urgency
•  Weak pelvic floor muscles.

How a Men’s Health Physiotherapist can help

Pelvic floor muscle training reduces urinary leakage after prostate surgery. Research has also shown that when this training is commenced before surgery, the severity of bladder leakage and the time it takes to restore bladder control are both reduced.

At Hoppers Physiotherapy the use of Transperineal real-time ultrasound enables you to identify and see correct Pelvic Floor Muscles contract. our Pelvic floor physio will educate and show you how to contract and ensure you’re not compensating using other muscles, it is essential that the correct muscle contraction and timing of the contraction can substantially improve your incontinence and reduce bladder leakage.  They will also be training you to practice these functionally and rehabilitate the cough reflex and help you to return to sports golf, walking and other physical activities.  We work closely with Urologists and urological nurses to optimise not only your Pelvic Floor Strength but can also assist with penile rehabilitation and help with erectile dysfunction.

What To Expect:

• A thorough assessment to establish your goals, pelvic floor requirements and treatment plan
• Design off an individualised and progressive pelvic floor muscle exercise program
• Incorporate aerobic and weight training / gym programs in line with your goals
• Advice about lifestyle modifications for the post op period and guidance for return to normal activity

For those who wish to work on improving erectile function – as their goal- we can definitely address this early to help optimise this.  For more information , please don’t hesitate to enquire at Western Women & Mens Health on 9749 5110.

Also attached is a link of one of our patients journey with prostate cancer that he would like to share.

https://www.stvfoundation.org.au/blog/men-supporting-men-to-ease-the-burden-of-cancer