Pre & Post Prostatectomy and Physical Therapy
“Prostate? I have heard the term; my doctor has talked about it… but what exactly does it do?”
A prostate is a reproductive organ in people born as males. It works with the testicles and fluids from other glands to make up semen/ allow for ejaculation. It is also important for the urinary continence system by providing pressure on the urethra.
“How do I know something is wrong with my prostate?”
Symptoms include:
- Urinary leakage
- Urinary retention
- Slowed stream
- Nocturia (getting up more than 1 time/night to pee)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Enlarged prostate
- Pelvic pain
- Elevated PSA levels
“Why would my prostate cause urinary problems”
Great question! A quick anatomy overview, your urethra (the tube that allows pee to flow out from your body into the toilet/woods/your chosen place to relieve yourself) runs right through your prostate, so if it becomes enlarged, it can squeeze on that urethral tube and can cause all the symptoms above. (insert photo of anatomical prostate with urethra)
“I am getting my prostate removed . . . now what!?”
Once you and your doctor have determined that getting a prostatectomy is the right fit for you, head to Physical Therapy! Pelvic Floor physical therapists will help set your expectations, answer questions, and create goals (along with your Physician) pre and post-prostatectomy. Physical therapists will teach you how to utilize your pelvic floor muscles appropriately to lessen your experience with incontinence postoperatively . . . yes everyone has a pelvic floor! Your Pelvic Floor PT may also teach you how to manage your penile tissue to prevent fibrosis that may cause Peyronie’s disease (painful bend of the erected penis due to fibrous plaque). Your PT will assess the muscle strength of the hips/legs/and pelvic floor muscles and teach you the best ways to strengthen prior to surgery to lead to a quicker recovery post-prostatectomy.
Have you heard of a “Kegel” and think it is only for the ladies? Guess again, Kegels are for all.
Urinary leakage is common right after surgery, but we want to prevent leakage as soon as possible. That is where PT’s come in to show you the tips and tricks for getting you back to your normal, healthy self that does not have to wear pads to enjoy your everyday outdoor activities.
Dr. Erin Dougherty, PT, DPT
Pelvic Health PT is inclusive for all genders
