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To celebrate Men's Health week, we asked Anna, our master's trained Pelvic Health Physiotherapist a few questions around the 'often not talked about' topic of Men's Health.
Anna is experienced in helping men with issues involving the pelvis such as bladder and bowel concerns, pelvic pain and rehab following prostate surgery.
Why would a man need to see a Pelvic Health Physio?
To strengthen their pelvic floor before and after prostate surgery (just like you would for your quadriceps before and after knee surgery!!)
Urinary urgency and leakage
Pain when your bladder fills or when urinating
Pelvic pain including prostatitis
I have had or recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, how can you help me?
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. Some men will have the prostate removed in a procedure called a radical prostatectomy. A common side effect of the surgery is urinary leakage or incontinence. There is evidence that men who do a pelvic floor exercises before and after surgery get drier quicker. As a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, I can prescribe a pelvic floor program tailored to suit you as well as guiding you back to your preferred exercise, sport or hobby!
My partner comments that I go to the bathroom very often or am desperate to go when I get somewhere - what can be done about this?
Men can experience urinary urgency and frequency, with or without leaking which is called an overactive bladder. Treatment involves teaching you strategies to calm the bladder down which makes you feel less urgent to go, looking at what you’re drinking and how that affects your bladder, as well as pelvic floor muscle exercises.
I have regular pain in my pelvis - can this be helped?
Pain in the pelvic area is common in men between 25-50 years of age. Seeing a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist can help resolve these symptoms by focusing on releasing, stretching and learning how to relax the pelvic muscles as well as learning about the science behind persistent pain and advice about exercise.
What does the appointment involve?
A pelvic health appointment will involve a detailed history of your concern; a physical assessment of your spine, pelvis and pelvic floor (using the real time ultrasound machine); followed by a discussion about what is contributing to your concern and a management plan outlining how we will help you to resolve the issue.
I'm not sure if I (or a loved one) need an appointment or not?
I am always happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about seeing a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist or can discuss whether pelvic health physiotherapy is right for you or your loved one.
My email is anna@promotionphysio.com.au