Penile traction therapy is a complementary option that may be indicated for some patients with Peyronie’s disease, with the goal of assisting penile alignment and preserving erectile function.
Although the topic is still debated in the medical literature, some studies suggest potential benefits of penile traction therapy in selected cases of Peyronie’s disease. Tissue-lengthening benefits could also support sexual function.
Learn how this therapy is performed and what results may be expected after treatment, based on recent research.
What is penile traction therapy?
Penile traction therapy is a non-invasive (non-surgical) technique that applies continuous, controlled traction force to the penis to help remodel fibrotic tissue, reduce curvature, and “stretch” the penis.
Its effectiveness for treating Peyronie’s disease has been studied and discussed within the medical community.
Who is this treatment for?
Penile traction therapy is primarily considered for patients with Peyronie’s disease.
In general, this option is recommended when plaques have not fully matured, as a complement to other treatments that aim to maintain penetrative function.
How is penile traction performed?
To perform this therapy, the penis should be flaccid.
Gently retract the skin to expose the glans. The patient holds the coronal ridge and moves it away from the base, applying traction to the penis. Maintain the position for 5–10 minutes.
Traction can be done manually or with a dedicated device.
Read more: Do exercises for Peyronie’s disease work?
Does penile traction therapy work?
Some studies observe that penile traction therapy may be associated with curvature improvement and, in certain cases, a modest increase in penile length. However, results vary widely between patients and depend on multiple clinical factors.
A recent systematic review published in Translational Andrology and Urology assessed the efficacy and safety of device-based penile traction therapy in men with Peyronie’s disease over an average of 6.75 months.
Key findings reported:
- Use of traction devices helped reduce penile curvature;
- Average length increase of about 1.8 cm (range 0.5–3.0 cm);
- Improvement of 5 points on the IIEF erectile function scale; however, this was not seen in all studies.
The technique is recognized in scientific literature as a therapeutic possibility, though limitations remain regarding protocol standardization. Examples include small sample sizes and heterogeneity in devices, daily use protocols, and treatment durations.
As with any therapy involving the genital organs, patients should consult a urologist to determine suitability and to receive guidance on correct traction application.
How can penile traction therapy help with Peyronie’s disease?
Penile traction therapy has been studied as an adjunct in managing Peyronie’s disease through possible mechanisms such as:
- Stimulating remodeling of fibrotic scar tissue: continuous, controlled traction may promote new cellular organization, helping align and soften affected areas;
- Gradual curvature reduction: mechanical force may stretch fibrotic fibers, making them more flexible and less contracted;
- Increase in penile length: prolonged stretching may stimulate cellular remodeling;
- Support for erectile function: reducing curvature and remodeling scar tissue may be associated with more comfortable, reliable erections;
- Potential to slow progression: complementary traction may help prevent further worsening in some cases.
Advantages of this approach
Mainly reported advantages of penile traction therapy for men with Peyronie’s include:
- Non-invasive technique with no surgical-type risks;
- Can be performed manually or with portable, discreet devices;
- Multiple clinical studies report effectiveness, despite limitations;
- When used correctly under medical guidance, generally safe and well tolerated;
- Very low rates of serious adverse effects reported.
What results can be expected?
When recommending this complementary therapy, the aim is often to help avoid the need for surgery.
If response is unsatisfactory and the condition continues to progress—negatively affecting sexual life—surgery may become the main option to address fibrosis and erectile dysfunction related to Peyronie’s disease.
Talk with Dr. Paulo Egydio to learn which treatment is right for you
Supported by scientific studies, penile traction therapy is a non-invasive alternative that may benefit selected profiles of patients with Peyronie’s disease.
Dr. Paulo Egydio can assess whether this approach fits your case or whether other treatments are more appropriate, based on extensive experience in Brazil and abroad.
For individualized guidance, complete a brief pre-assessment to receive initial information.
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