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
