Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplas

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or the enlargement of the prostate gland, is a common condition in men as they age. BPH can lead to uncomfortable urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, or weak urine flow. While medical treatments are available, many men are unaware that pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) can be an effective, non-invasive treatment for managing BPH symptoms. At Next Step Physiotherapy , Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Edmonton offers a holistic and safe approach to improving urinary function and quality of life for men living with BPH.

Understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is the non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, which surrounds the urethra, the tube responsible for carrying urine from the bladder. As the prostate enlarges, it can press against the urethra, causing urinary issues such as:

Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
Urgency to urinate
Difficulty starting or stopping the urine stream
Weak urine flow or dribbling
A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying

These symptoms can significantly impact a man’s daily life, making it harder to sleep, focus, and engage in normal activities. While medications and surgery are commonly prescribed, pelvic floor physical therapy offers a less invasive, effective option for managing BPH symptoms.

The Role of Pelvic Floor Muscles in BPH
The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and, in men, the prostate. They also play a crucial role in controlling urination. When these muscles become weak or overactive, it can exacerbate urinary symptoms associated with BPH. By strengthening and improving the coordination of these muscles, pelvic floor physical therapy can help men regain control over their bladder function and reduce the impact of BPH on their lives.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Can Help with BPH
Pelvic floor physical therapy at Next Step Physiotherapy in Edmonton focuses on improving the strength, flexibility, and control of the pelvic floor muscles. The goal is to enhance bladder function and alleviate the symptoms of BPH through targeted exercises and techniques. Here are some of the key benefits of PFPT for men with BPH:

Improved Bladder Control
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles helps improve bladder control, reducing symptoms like frequent urination and urgency. Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, can be taught by a physiotherapist and tailored to each individual’s needs.

Reduced Urinary Symptoms
By retraining the pelvic floor muscles, men can experience a reduction in symptoms such as weak urine flow, difficulty starting urination, and incomplete bladder emptying. Regular practice of pelvic floor exercises can make urination more efficient and less strained.

Non-Invasive Treatment
PFPT offers a non-invasive alternative to medication and surgery, making it an attractive option for men seeking a more natural approach to managing BPH. It provides a safe way to address the root cause of urinary symptoms without the risk of side effects associated with medication or the recovery time required after surgery.

Education and Lifestyle Modifications
Physiotherapists at Next Step provide education on bladder health, helping men identify and avoid lifestyle factors that may worsen their symptoms. This can include advice on fluid management, avoiding bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol, and strategies for timed voiding to reduce nighttime urination.

What to Expect at Next Step Physiotherapy
At Next Step Physiotherapy, men with BPH will receive a comprehensive evaluation of their pelvic floor function. The physiotherapist will assess the strength, coordination, and flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles, along with other factors contributing to urinary sympto