What is Penile Rehabilitation?
Penile rehabilitation is a structured treatment plan aimed at restoring erectile function and overall penile health, particularly after prostate surgery, radiation therapy, Peyronie’s disease, or prolonged erectile dysfunction (ED). The goal is to prevent long-term damage, improve blood flow, and maintain tissue elasticity to enhance natural erections.
How is it Done?
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Enhancing Blood Flow: Regular stimulation and treatment improve circulation to prevent penile tissue atrophy.
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Preventing Fibrosis & Shrinkage: Lack of erections over time can lead to scarring and shortening of the penis.
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Restoring Nerve Function: After surgeries (e.g., prostatectomy), rehabilitation can support nerve regeneration.
Key Components of Penile Rehabilitation
Medications (PDE5 Inhibitors)
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Drugs like Sildenafil (Viagra) or Tadalafil (Cialis) help stimulate blood flow and prevent tissue degeneration.
Vacuum Erection Devices (VEDs)
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Non-invasive pumps that improve circulation, prevent shrinkage, and maintain tissue health.
Intracavernosal Injections (ICI)
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Direct penile injections (e.g., Alprostadil) that trigger erections in cases of severe ED.
Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels)
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Strengthening pelvic muscles to improve erectile function and ejaculation control.
Lifestyle Modifications
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Regular exercise, a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and stress reduction significantly impact recovery.
Shockwave Therapy (Li-ESWT)
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Low-intensity shockwave treatments that promote new blood vessel formation (neovascularization).
