Get Answers for Pelvic Pain Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction
Men, are you interested in coming in for a pelvic health appointment but not sure what to expect?
“Up to 16% of men are affected by pelvic floor dysfunction.”
When it comes to our health, we often have a lot of questions. Today we are going to review the top frequently asked questions men have before coming in for an initial evaluation.
Have a question we didn’t answer? Leave a comment at the end of the post to have answered.
“Men Pelvic floor issues SHOULD NOT be something men have to live forever!”
It’s important to know how to keep your pelvic region healthy, especially as you get older. So if you’re curious about anything related to your pelvic health, read on for answers!
Question 1: What things can you treat?
Incontinence, pelvic pain, constipation, erectile dysfunction, pain with or post intercourse, post surgery as in prostatectomy, hernia repair, or post vasectomy issues.
Check out our Services Page here.
Question 2: What does an exam with you look like?
First we are going to talk extensively. I will ask you many questions regarding your symptoms, how long they have been going on, and more importantly how is it affecting your every day life. We will set very functional goals and talk about what is important to you to get back to you. Then we will do a physical exam. A physical exam may include things like: watching you move, bend, squat, if you can. We will test your strength and just see generally how the body is doing.
Then we will do a pelvic exam. A pelvic exam usually entails the patient lying on the table, underneath a sheet, undressed from the waist down. We will look at the perineal area. We will be looking for any abnormalities in skin.
We may ask you to tighten or relax your muscles. We may ask you to cough and see how those pelvic muscles respond.
Then, with your permission, and a gloved hand we will gently palpate the external pelvic floor. We are am looking for symptom reproduction or abnormal tenderness. Your exam may include an internal pelvic floor exam. In women that is done vaginally. In men that is done rectally.
The internal exam allows us to have a better understanding of your tissue state and neuromuscular control of those muscles. It also allows us to see what your strength, endurance, and power of the pelvic floor looks like. This is similar to having the muscles of your leg tested, when you go to PT for knee issues. It is just in a more private area. After we are done with our testing, we will have a discussion regarding our findings and recommendations.
Question 3: Do I have to do an internal exam?
You always have the right to decline any portion of the exam. You are 100% in control. If you prefer not to do the internal exam let your pelvic floor therapist know and they will talk about other ways they can check your symptoms and address your primary complaint.
Question 4: Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
You are welcome to bring someone with you to your appointment. It is encouraged. If you would like them in the room during the exam they are welcome or if you’d like them to step out during the pelvic exam that is OK too. The main goal is for you to be comfortable.
Question 5: How long does the exam take?
Initial evaluation‘s usually take about 60 minutes. It is important that all your paperwork is done prior to your exam, so that the entire hour can be dedicated to your evaluation.
Question 6: I am post prostatectomy. How soon can I come in to see you?
That is usually up to your surgeon. At the very least the catheter needs to have been removed prior to coming to physical therapy. If you are less than six weeks, we cannot perform an internal exam. However, we can perform an external exam and give you several tips and tricks to help the healing process in the early stages post surgery. Usually, we see patients about six weeks post-op and then we can do the entire exam and the patient is usually a little bit more comfortable.
Question 7: What makes your clinic different than the other physical therapy clinics?
When you come to OneAccord Physical Therapy and The Pelvic Docs, you are getting expert level care. You will get hour long, one-on-one sessions. We strive to not only address your symptoms but coach you through lifestyle and behavioral changes that will speed up the healing process and help you to maintain a healthy lifestyle, so you can get back to what is important to you.
Get in contact with us so you can get back to the life you deserve today.
