Men’s Health Physio Canberra

Physio assisting a patient

Men’s Health Physio

At Southside Physio we are proud to offer an excellent service for Men’s Health Physio in Canberra. Michael Irvine and Chris McLachlan are highly trained therapists that can offer assessment, diagnosis and treatment of Men’s pelvic health issues.

Pelvic health conditions affecting men are very common, things like bladder and bowel dysfunction, complications from prostate surgery, erectile dysfunction and pelvic pain are important issues that men are facing. The truth is- this area of healthcare is under-utilised and often holds a stigma against men speaking out about it. We are here to challenge the status quo, get men the treatment they need, and make sure it is executed at the highest quality.

What can Men’s Health Physio help with?

Diagnostic Ultrasound – Our Physio’s can use a real-time ultrasound machine to determine the activity levels of your pelvic floor muscles.

Pelvic Floor Exercises A significant aspect of physiotherapy involves pelvic floor exercises. These exercises are crucial as they help compensate for the impaired bladder control mechanisms post-surgery. Exercise programs are customized to fit individual abilities and goals.

Bladder and Bowel Training Post-surgery, bladder and bowel control might be affected, leading to issues such as urine leakage, bowel incontinence, and frequent urination. These symptoms usually improve over time, but bladder and bowel retraining may be necessary.

Resuming Regular Activities After surgery, activities are limited to light ones, with restrictions on heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for several weeks. As recovery progresses, patients can gradually return to their regular activities under the guidance of their physiotherapist.

PROST exercise class
Our Physiotherapists run the PROST Class in Canberra which is an inclusive, social exercise class for Men’s health, strength training and a focus on community/mateship.

Pre-Op Physio Many Studies demonstrate that men who begin pelvic floor exercises before surgery experience better bladder control recovery. A pre-operative session helps familiarize patients with their pelvic floor muscles, ensuring correct exercise techniques, and easing post-surgery rehabilitation.

 

Physiotherapy After Prostate Surgery

Post-Prostate Surgery Physiotherapy

Men undergoing prostate surgery often face challenges with bladder control (urinary incontinence) due to the surgery’s impact on the bladder control mechanism. Training the pelvic floor muscles can help mitigate this issue. A pelvic floor physiotherapist will provide tailored exercises to aid recovery. Starting these exercises before surgery is highly recommended, so scheduling a pre-operative appointment can be beneficial.

Symptoms post Prostatectomy

Bladder Leakage Urine leakage is common post-surgery, particularly during activities that increase abdominal pressure like coughing, sneezing, transitioning from sitting to standing, and heavy lifting. The extent and duration of urine leakage vary among individuals, but it typically improves over time. Research indicates that pelvic floor exercises, especially when started before surgery, can significantly enhance recovery and expedite the return to continence.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Some men may experience difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection following surgery. Predicting the likelihood and extent of this issue is challenging. However, pelvic floor exercises have been shown to aid in recovery.

Bladder Dysfunction Men may experience bladder dysfunction, such as incontinence, frequent urination, and urine retention. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can effectively address these issues. If you notice urine leakage during activities like coughing or sneezing, urgency to urinate, or frequent nighttime urination, physiotherapy might be beneficial.

Common Causes of Poor Bladder Function:

  • Weak pelvic floor muscles
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Prostate surgery
  • Excessive heavy lifting
  • Constipation
  • Poor toileting habits
  • Obesity
  • Neurological conditions
  • Certain medications

Physiotherapy for Bladder Dysfunction Physiotherapy sessions include a thorough assessment to evaluate bladder and pelvic floor function, followed by a personalized treatment plan. The plan typically includes pelvic floor muscle exercises and advice on maintaining good bladder habits.

Bowel Dysfunction Post-surgery, some men may face bowel dysfunction, such as constipation or incontinence, which can significantly impact overall health and well-being. Physiotherapy can effectively treat these conditions.

Common Symptoms of Bowel Dysfunction:

  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Hard stools
  • Faecal soiling
  • Urgency to empty bowels
  • Lack of bowel movement urge
  • Accidental passing of gas

Possible Causes:

  • Constipation
  • Poor toileting habits
  • Inadequate diet and fluid intake
  • Poor pelvic floor muscle function
  • Stress and anxiety

Physiotherapy for Bowel Dysfunction A physiotherapy session will include a comprehensive assessment to understand bowel and pelvic floor function, followed by a personalized treatment plan with pelvic floor exercises and advice on improving bowel habits and stool consistency.

Chronic Pelvic Pain Chronic pelvic pain is common in men and can severely affect physical and emotional well-being. Pelvic floor muscles often contribute to this pain, and physiotherapy can provide effective treatment.

Common Symptoms:

  • Pain in the pelvic region, including penis, testes, or anus
  • Pain during erection or ejaculation
  • Pain with a full bladder

Possible Causes:

  • Overactive pelvic floor muscles
  • Overactive abdominal muscles
  • Pelvic injuries
  • Bladder infections
  • Neural injuries
  • Psychological factors

Physiotherapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain Treatment involves a thorough assessment of pelvic floor function and a tailored plan, including pelvic floor exercises, pain management strategies, and coordination with other health professionals.

Erectile Dysfunction Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection is a common issue affecting men of all ages, impacting self-esteem and relationships. Strong pelvic floor muscles are linked to improved erectile function, and physiotherapy can help.

Common Symptoms:

  • Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection
  • Erections insufficient for penetration

Possible Causes:

  • Poor pelvic floor muscle function
  • Certain surgeries (e.g., prostate surgery)
  • Neurological or psychological conditions

Unsure about what you need? – Email michaeli@sspg.com.au today for any questions