Prostate Conditions | Donna Sarna

What are Conditions Related to the Prostate?

The prostate is a gland that is a part of the male reproductive system. It is a small walnut shaped gland that wraps around the male urethra near the bladder. Medical conditions specific to the prostate include:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate gland, a common occurence in older men.

Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland due to an infection. Research demonstrates 10-12% of all men experience prostatitis symptoms.

Chronic prostatitis (non-bacterial) is also termed chronic pelvic pain syndrome. It can be described as inflammatory or non-inflammatory and often no specific causes can be identified.

Prostectomy refers to the surgical removal of all or part of the prostate gland. The operation is done for benign causes that cause urinary retention, as well as for prostate cancer and for other cancers of the pelvis.

Problems involving the prostate gland may cause compression of the urethra which can affect urine from coming out the penis. This often leads to overflow dribbling, and difficulty with voiding fully, and therefore an increase in toileting frequency. This may also lead to other issues such as pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, and erectile dysfunction. Surgical intervention for prostate or pelvic issues may result in scar tissue, adhesions, and potentially pain.

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

Difficulty initiating urination or defecation

Dribbling urine

Weak or slow urine

Difficulty stopping the flow

Increased frequency

Nighttime urinating

Increased urge to urinate or defecate

Pain or stiffness in the low back, hips, pelvis, rectal area, and thighs

Pain with intercourse

Erectile dysfunction

How Can Donna Sarna Physiotherapy Help?

At Donna Sarna Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation, a pelvic floor assessment is a two-part process. The first appointment will include a detailed history and an external evaluation. The physiotherapist will examine posture, movement, and the muscles, fascia, and nerves, focusing on the low back, hips, pelvis and abdomen. The second appointment will include an internal examination, which includes evaluation of the skin and connective tissue of the genitals. The pelvic floor muscles are tested for muscle tone or tightness, strength, endurance, trigger points, and tissue integrity. The internal examination is performed through the anus. You are always welcome to have a trusted individual present during examination or treatment.

An individualized treatment plan is developed based on assessment findings and may include education regarding posture, breathing, proper toileting techniques, bladder training/urge delay techniques, evacuation techniques, abdominal massage, diet, exercise, scar mobilization, manual therapy, myofascial release, visceral manipulation, and pelvic floor exercise.