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Kegel
exercises or pelvic floor exercises are an easy
and effective method to overcome or diminish incontinence
from prostate cancer treatments. It is the only treatment
for incontinence that does not cost anything and leaves
the patient in full control. Kegel exercises can be
performed anytime, anywhere.
Pelvic muscles are used to keep people from urinating. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles that support the urethra, bladder, uterus, and rectum. To perform Kegel exercises simply tighten the pelvic muscles, keep them tight for about 10 seconds, and then release. Remember to breathe slowly and deeply while keeping the legs together. Only tighten the pelvic muscles, not the buttocks or the abdominal or thigh muscles. Some doctors recommend that patients do these exercises for five minutes, twenty times a day.
To rehabilitate the pelvic muscles doctors may provide patients with referrals for physical therapy. Here, therapists use a biofeedback system to teach this method properly. Patients are hooked up to a machine that lights up or gives another positive signal that the exercises are done correctly. Biofeedback is an easy and painless way to become more familiar with the exercise.
When you first start the exercises it may be difficult to maintain the muscle contraction, however it will get easier as the muscle strength improves. Regular practice is needed to see results. For some patients, it may take 6-12 weeks to notice a change in urine loss. It is important to focus on a personal goal. Once that goal has been attained, patients can do the exercises for five minutes, three times a week.
Kegel exercises or pelvic floor exercises may be used in combination with another form of treatment for impotence. Patients should consult their physician to determine whether this is a viable treatment option.
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