pelvicPT sex relationships satisfaction: Conservative Management of Erectile Dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) may occur anytime after the age of 20. By age 40, the prevalence increases by 10% each decade. ED can be caused organically such as vascular and neuro dysfunctions, post surgical, post trauma, hormones, and medications. ED can also be due to psychological dysfunction, age, pain-related, activities, situational, and behavior. Dec-27-2023

Conservative Management of Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) may occur anytime after the age of 20. By age 40, the prevalence increases by 10% each decade. ED can be caused organically such as vascular and neuro dysfunctions, post surgical, post trauma, hormones, and medications. ED can also be due to psychological dysfunction, age, pain-related, activities, situational, and behavior.

While there are many treatment options for ED including medications, injections, and use of external devices, pelvic floor physical therapy is not commonly mentioned as an intervention option for erectile dysfunction. In general, exercise is effective and lower cost to prevent and even improve symptoms of ED. Pelvic floor physical therapy should be considered one of the first treatment options for management of ED.

So what does a pelvic floor physical therapy session look like to address erectile dysfunction? First, the PT will gather any current and past medical history including surgeries, medications, current and previous diagnoses. The PT will also ask relevant questions regarding sexual function that is related to erectile dysfunction to determine what may be the driving and contributing factors to guide treatment, education, and potential referrals if needed. The objective examinations are person dependent but generally the spine and pelvic floor are both assessed.

Treatments and interventions are also person dependent and will be focused on what is found during the subjective and objective exam of the physical therapy evaluation. Below is what may be addressed with physical therapy treatment for ED. Exercises are provided based on the information found from these four areas.

  • Spinal: addressing spine mobility and posture can create positive and long lasting effects
  • Muscular: the ability for muscles to contract and relax in various positions
  • Neural: the somatic and autonomic nervous systems have a major role in mediating conscious and unconscious activities
  • Tissue: restriction in erectile tissue, ligaments, and fascia can decrease neural and blood circulation

Erectile dysfunction is becoming more common in the United States and other nations and while there are options to address and improve ED, physical therapy is a more conservative option and alternative that is highly effective, lower cost, and without any additional side effects.



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Chelsea Speegle DPT Doctor of Physical Therapy | Pelvic Health Certified

Chelsea Speegle is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) who specializes in pelvic health with a particular interest in helping pregnant and postpartum moms as well as men's health. She works primarily at Activcore in Littleton, Colorado which is located inside the Womens Health Care Associates OBGYN clinic.

https://creativecontinuum.biz


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Questions Answered At a Glance

Discover what makes therapy work

What makes sex therapy different from “normal” therapy?

Sex therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses specifically on communication, relationships, intimacy, and sex. We often discuss low libido, desire discrepancy, painful intercourse, non-traditional relationships, orgasm difficulties, and sexual preferences.

What is sex therapy?

Sex therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps people deal with sexual problems and improve their sexual health and well-being. It’s important because we’re all sexual beings, and our mental health can affect our sexual desire and pleasure. Sex therapy can help people talk about uncomfortable things about sex, intimacy, and communication, but it’s important to remember that many sexual health problems could be solved if people talked openly about sex and their experiences.

Are you comfortable talking about ethical non-monagomy (ENM)?

Yes. Ethical non-monogamy (ENM) is a relationship style that focuses on honesty, openness, and mutual agreement when it comes to having multiple romantic or sexual partners. Whether you’re just starting to think about this idea or have been curious for a while, ethical non-monogamy can be a really liberating way to love and connect. But it’s important to know that this lifestyle might not be right for everyone. That’s totally okay. The real question is, does ENM fit with your values and emotional needs?

Can you help with struggles with sex and religion?

You might be confused about why feelings about sex are so tough when you believe “God made us as we are.” This struggle and doubt can make you feel even more ashamed and alone from your partner. You might even wonder if you’re going through religious sexual trauma, even though you were never physically abused in the church. This unwanted religious sexual dysfunction can strain your intimate relationships, and it might make the pain, guilt, and shame you’ve been carrying since you were a kid even worse. We can help.

Are our sexual wants normal?

It can be tough to figure out what’s “normal” when it comes to sex, because everyone’s different. Instead of trying to fit in with what others think is “normal,” it’s more important to listen to your own body and mind. Think about what makes you feel good and what you’ve been wanting lately. Comparing yourself to others or to porn can make you feel bad about yourself, but if you’re struggling with your sexual identity, know that you’re not alone.

My partner and I have mismatched desire. Are we normal?

A common concern is the struggle with low libido or decreased arousal. Many people experience fluctuations in their sexual desire—often due to medical conditions, stress, or other underlying factors. If your current arousal levels differ significantly from the past or from your partner, discussing it with one of our certified psychosexual therapists can help alleviate anxiety and provide guidance on how to address the issue.

How do I know when it’s time to talk to someone about my sexual issues?

If you’ve been looking for info about sex therapy and common sexual concerns, you’ve already taken a huge step towards acknowledging your worries. If your concerns keep you up a night, talking to a sex therapist could give you some clarity and help you find solutions.