What is voiding dysfunction?

Voiding dysfunction is abnormal holding along with a disturbed voiding pattern. There is potential for this condition to affect urination, defecation, and/or ejaculation. One probable cause is poor coordination between the bladder and/or rectum with the external sphincter (pelvic floor muscles). The associated symptoms may be inclusive of increased urgency, frequency, hesitancy, weak stream, dribbling, or constipation. Usually environmental and psychological factors feed into voiding dysfunction making this condition challenging for both the sufferer and the healthcare community to manage.

Can physical therapy help me if I suffer from male voiding dysfunction?

Male voiding dysfunction can be managed by an experienced physical therapist if the cause is found to be from the neuro-musculo-skeletal system. Some of these causes may include: inability to achieve relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles during times of attempted voiding, resultant spasms and tightness within the muscles and connective tissue of the pelvic area, and/or poor body awareness.

Interventions usually consist of behavioral training for pelvic area body awareness and proper voiding strategies, therapeutic exercise instruction, relaxation techniques, sEMG biofeedback for downtraining, manual therapy for joint, muscle, connective tissue and myofascial mobilization, as well as, self-management strategies.