By: Chelsey Vasquez, PT, DPT, PRPC
In January 2026, The New York Times published an article highlighting what urologists wish men understood about sexual health: many of the symptoms men quietly worry about are common, treatable—and often connected to broader physical health.
As physical therapists specializing in pelvic health, we see the same pattern every day. Men delay care, assume symptoms are “just aging,” or search online for answers instead of getting evidence-based treatment. Yet many of these issues are musculoskeletal—and highly responsive to physical therapy.
This is where the conversation must expand beyond urology and into rehabilitation.
The Missing Link in Men’s Health Care: The Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles forming a sling that supports the bladder, bowel, and sexual organs while contributing to continence, posture, and sexual function.
Despite its importance, pelvic floor dysfunction in men is common but frequently overlooked and undertreated, even though strong evidence supports physical therapy as an effective treatment.
Men are also less likely to seek care for sensitive symptoms, often believing they are alone in their experience.
Erectile Dysfunction Isn’t Just a Sexual Issue—It’s a Whole-Body Issue
Urologists emphasize that erectile dysfunction (ED) can signal underlying cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or metabolic problems—not just aging.
But there’s another contributor that often goes unaddressed:
Pelvic floor dysfunction can directly affect erectile function, ejaculation, and pain.
Research shows:
- Roughly one-third of men with chronic pelvic pain also experience ED.
- Pelvic floor muscles actively contract during erection and ejaculation, helping maintain rigidity and control.
When these muscles are weak, uncoordinated—or more commonly, too tense—sexual function can suffer.
It’s Not Just About Kegels
Many men assume they need to strengthen. In reality, we often find overactive or tense pelvic floor muscles.
Treatment may include:
- Muscle relaxation and coordination training
- Breathing and pressure management
- Manual therapy
- Movement retraining for exercise and sport
Our goal is restoring control, not just strength.
How Common Are These Conditions?
The data may surprise you:
- Up to 15% of men experience chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
- About 1 in 5 men over 65 have pelvic floor–related urinary leakage.
- After prostate surgery, as many as 87% of men experience urinary incontinence.
- Chronic pelvic pain affects roughly 4.5–9% of men, particularly younger and middle-aged adults.
Why Men in Boulder County Are Seeking Pelvic Floor PT
Active men — runners, cyclists, climbers, skiers — place unique demands on their core and pelvic floor. Add stress, prolonged sitting, or surgery, and dysfunction can develop.
The good news: these conditions are common and highly treatable with the right guidance.
Looking for Men’s Pelvic Health Physical Therapy in Boulder County?
If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, urinary leakage, pelvic pain, or post-prostatectomy symptoms, you don’t have to “just live with it.”
At Mend Physical Therapy in Boulder, we provide private, one-on-one pelvic health care designed specifically for men.
Schedule an evaluation today and start addressing the root cause.