Prostatectomy and physical therapy
Prostate cancer is the second most common malignancy in males, with 80% of males over 80 having some cancerous cells in their prostate.
Risk factors for prostate cancer include: age, family history, environment, obesity and metabolic dysfunction.
During this procedure, the prostate is excised and the urethra is shortened leading to disruption of the pelvic floor muscles.
The non erect penile tissue is often shortened for greater than one year or potentially permanently after this procedure, this can have a negative effect on sexual function or body image. The pelvic floor muscles surrounding the urethra are often disrupted which can lead to dysfunction of the muscles. Following the procedure, males are no longer able to ejaculate due to loss of seminal fluid.
So what does this have to do with physical therapy?
Modifiable risk factors for prostate cancer include obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Physical therapy can help with beginning an exercise routine, eliminating pain to increase ability to exercise, and making lifestyle changes.
Before surgery, physical therapy can assist with education on pelvic floor function, setting expectations on what to expect after surgery, and education on physical activity.
Physical therapy before surgery has been shown to decrease anxiety going into the procedure, decrease return to activity time, return of continence and erectile function earlier.
Symptoms following surgery may include urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, dribbling of urine post void, and inguinal hernias. For many males, these symptoms will improve after 12 months but physical therapy may be able to help shorten that time frame.
Having prostate surgery soon and want to learn more beforehand? Already had prostate surgery and experiencing some of these complications? Loon State Physical Therapy is located in Linden Hills, Lake Elmo, and Minnetonka.
At Loon State Physical Therapy, we believe common does not have to be your normal. Schedule your free discovery call or your first appointment here.
- Lexi Noel PT, DPT
