Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition commonly affecting 52% of US men aged 40 to 70 years. It affects at least 30 to 50 million men in the US and 150 million men globally. In ED, blood flow to the penis is inhibited and/or nerve damage occurs. This often impacts personal relationships and causes mental distress.
There can be physical and/or psychological causes of erectile dysfunction
Physical causes include:
- Heart disease
- Clogged blood vessels (atherosclerosis)
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome — a condition involving increased blood pressure, high insulin levels, body fat around the waist and high cholesterol
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Certain prescription medications
- Tobacco use
- Peyronie’s disease — development of scar tissue inside the penis
- Alcoholism and other forms of substance abuse
- Sleep disorders
- Treatments for prostate cancer or enlarged prostate
- Surgeries or injuries that affect the pelvic area or spinal cord
- Low testosterone
Psychological causes include:
- Depression, anxiety or other mental health conditions
- Stress
- Relationship problems due to stress, poor communication or other concerns
Pelvic Health PT
Pelvic physical therapy is cost-effective and non-invasive. It can be very helpful in treating male erectile dysfunction. The goal in treatment is to improve circulation and decrease muscle tension to improve erection and ejaculation. Treatment would include various types of relaxation strategies and manual techniques such as soft tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point release of various muscles of the hips and back, as well as trigger point release of the pelvic floor musculature.
Body Harmony Physical Therapy offers one-on-one treatment sessions and provides individualized treatment programs for each patient.
Tips:
- Consult with your MD to manage medical conditions properly
- Exercise often (3-5 times a week for at least 30 mins of moderate intensity)
- Stress management
- Seek help for mental health concerns
