Physical Therapy Program

The Chesapeake Urology prostate cancer specialists understand that restoring quality of life through the recovery process following a radical prostatectomy or other treatment for prostate cancer is important, which is why we offer men a comprehensive physical therapy rehabilitation program. Partnering with the physical therapists, our prostate cancer patients benefit from a unique rehabilitation program focused on the healthcare needs of men experiencing urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction following prostatectomy or other prostate cancer treatment.

Why Physical Therapy?

Following prostate cancer treatment, and especially after a radical prostatectomy, men may experience urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction (ED) and pain.

Our pelvic floor physical therapists play an important role in the rehabilitation of men following treatment for prostate cancer by teaching and implementing exercises and techniques that strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Stronger pelvic floor muscles help alleviate symptoms of urinary incontinence and maintain normal pelvic floor muscle function. Physical therapy also focuses on restoring cardiovascular fitness which helps the body battle the effects of cancer treatments. Enhanced cardiovascular fitness improves blood flow, which has been shown to improve symptoms associated with erectile dysfunction.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Post Prostatectomy Incontinence

Urinary incontinence is a common side effect of radical prostatectomy surgery. Most men experience a return to normal bladder function in time. However, some men have continued problems with urinary incontinence that can be improved with physical therapy and pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Our physical therapists work with prostatectomy patients on teaching appropriate pelvic floor muscle exercises and techniques. Strengthening exercises help prevent the leakage of urine. Pelvic floor muscle exercises can be taught pre-surgery or provided post prostatectomy.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Post Prostatectomy Erectile Dysfunction

Treatment to restore erectile function should be part of every man's recovery plan following prostatectomy. The health of the penis depends on adequate blood flow and oxygen. Blood flow directly impacts the ability to get and maintain an erection, which is why physical therapy also focuses on fitness and cardiovascular health. Connective tissue massage helps to increase local blood supply and, together with the strengthening of the pelvic floor muscles which are also active during sexual intercourse, assists in speeding up erectile function and recovery.

Talk to Your Urologist About Physical Therapy Pre- Or Post-prostatectomy.

Learn more about the Erectile and Continence Recovery Program.