The prostate gland sits just below the bladder and completely encircles the urethra at the point where it leaves the bladder. When the prostate gland is removed in a radical prostatectomy, damage can occur to the urinary sphincter. Damage can also occur when receiving radiation to this area. Depending on the extent of the damage, temporary or permanent incontinence can result.
Many men regain normal bladder control within several weeks or months after radical prostatectomy. However, there is no way to predict if leakage will occur or for how long it will continue. Most men experience leakage for weeks to a few months, a small percentage will have continued long-term or permanent leaking and some experience will experience no leakage at all. Our post-prostatectomy physical therapy programs are tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Symptoms that may occur after prostatectomy:
- Urinary incontinence at rest and with activity
- Nocturia: urinating more than 2 times per night
- Frequent urination during the day
- Inability to achieve or maintain an erection
- Abdominal discomfort
Treatments for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy:
- Biofeedback (relaxation training and/or strengthening)
- External manual therapy
- Scar mobilization
- Internal manual therapy if necessary
- Bladder retraining
- Kegel exercises (both in isolation and functional training)
- Lower extremity stretching
- Core strengthening
- Extensive patient education
Contact our Pelvic Floor care team today for a consult and get started on your individualized plan.
Phone: 212-353-8693 • Fax: 347-507-5510 • Office Email: frontdesk@zionpt.com
