Penile rehabilitation is a physiotherapy method that restores tissue and blood flow to the penis, helping to recover erectile function and sensitivity. It is recommended for erectile dysfunction after radiotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as for Peyronie’s disease, which causes penile curvature. Learn more!
Imagine regaining your intimate health, restoring confidence, and reclaiming quality of life. Penile rehabilitation may be the solution.
This type of therapy works directly on the tissues and blood flow of the penis, which are essential for erectile function. Whether after treatments such as radiotherapy, radical surgeries, or even for specific conditions like Peyronie’s disease, rehabilitation offers real and effective alternatives for men seeking to regain a full sexual life.
Continue reading to discover the methods and benefits that can transform your recovery journey and overall well-being.
What is penile rehabilitation?
Penile rehabilitation is a physiotherapy treatment that helps restore the health of the penis. This treatment can include stretching exercises, vacuum devices, oral medications, or injections.
When is penile rehabilitation recommended?
One indication is in cases of prostate removal surgery. During surgery, the nerves associated with erections may be damaged, resulting in vascular impairment of the corpora cavernosa, meaning the penis cannot receive enough blood to become rigid.
In this case, penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy helps in the recovery of male sexual function.
Bladder, rectum, and colon surgeries can also impair a man’s ability to have satisfactory erections. In these cases, physiotherapy is equally essential.
Types of penile rehabilitation and how they work
Among the main types of penile rehabilitation are stretching exercises, vacuum pumps, intracavernosal injections, penile prosthesis implantation, and the use of medications. Learn in detail how they work.
Remember, any type of treatment must be carried out under the guidance of a urologist to avoid injuries.
1. Stretching exercises
Stretching exercises improve flexibility and blood circulation.
With the penis flaccid, gently hold the glans (head of the penis) and pull it away from the body. Hold the stretch for 10 to 15 seconds.
Repeat the movement in different directions for 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Vacuum pump
The vacuum pump is a device consisting of a cylindrical plastic tube and a vacuum pump mechanism. The man inserts the penis into the tube and activates the pump.
This action creates pressure that stimulates blood flow to the penis, causing the corpora cavernosa to fill with blood, resulting in an erection.
3. Intracavernosal injections
Intracavernosal injections are typically prescribed when the patient does not respond to oral medications.
They induce an erection, meaning the man does not rely on erotic stimulation to maintain a rigid penis—unlike pills.
Injections should be administered at intervals of 48 hours, alternating sides to reduce the risk of fibrosis caused by repeated punctures.
4. Therapy with vasodilator medications
Vasodilator medications dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow. They are used to treat erectile dysfunction and are the first medicinal option.
Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, such as Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), and Vardenafil (Levitra), are examples of vasodilators. They enhance the effects of nitric oxide, a substance that relaxes penile muscles and increases blood flow.
However, these medications are erection facilitators, meaning erotic stimulation is required for the penis to be ready for sexual activity.
5. Penile prosthesis implantation
The prosthesis is recommended when other types of penile rehabilitation are not effective.
There are two types of prostheses:
- Inflatable: Comprising inflatable cylinders, a pump in the scrotum, and a reservoir, they provide a more natural erection when the man presses the pump several times to inflate it. To return the penis to its normal state, the fluid in the cylinders returns to the reservoir.
- Malleable: Malleable prostheses consist of flexible rods that keep the penis in a semi-rigid position. When the man wants an erection, he adjusts the prosthesis, and to return to normal, he readjusts the position of the implant.
Both models restore erectile capacity, improving quality of life, as the penile implant can make a man’s sexual life better than before.
However, for it to work effectively, it is crucial to follow medical instructions after the procedure, such as attending follow-up appointments and respecting the prescribed recovery period before resuming activities, including sex.
Why is rehabilitation important for men’s health?
The importance of penile rehabilitation goes beyond restoring the ability to achieve healthy erections. It also helps regain a full and satisfying sexual life, treat Peyronie’s disease, and correct penile shortening.
Some men who undergo radical prostatectomy notice that their penis becomes shorter. In such cases, rehabilitation can also help restore the original anatomy of the organ.
Physical therapy benefits not only physical health but also psychological well-being. By reversing erectile dysfunction, it boosts a man’s self-esteem, strengthens relationships, and positively impacts other areas of life.
The importance of follow-up and post-surgery monitoring
Medical follow-up after surgery is crucial to assess the patient’s pain levels and identify any adverse reactions. Additionally, this monitoring is essential for addressing potential concerns.
What is the best rehabilitation treatment for me?
The best penile rehabilitation treatment is determined by the urologist based on the patient’s overall condition. However, it’s not enough to perform the exercises prescribed by the professional. It’s essential to follow the prescribed frequency and execute them correctly to avoid further harm to penile health.
Get in touch with Dr. Paulo today to receive personalized guidance on the best treatment for you.
Learn more:
- Sexual Health: Egydio Medical Center EMC
- How Not to Fail at the Right Moment? Tips to Avoid Impotence
- When Is a Penile Prosthesis Necessary in Curvature Surgery?
- What Causes Hormonal Disorders in Men? Find Out!
- Penile Prosthesis: Detailed Advantages and Disadvantages
- Penile Prosthesis Rejection: Risks and Cases
- Does prostate removal affect ejaculation? What changes in sexual life
- Penile Prosthesis Maintenance: Do I Need Frequent Replacements?
