Problems with bladder control are more common in men than many people realize—particularly as they age. In medical terminology these symptoms are called Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS). These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life, sleep, confidence, and even mental health. While many men assume that surgery or medication are the only solutions, pelvic health physiotherapy is an evidence-based, effective approach that can reduce symptoms and improve bladder control without invasive interventions.
What Are Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms?
LUTS is an umbrella term for a range of issues related to the bladder, urethra, and surrounding pelvic structures. These can include:
- Urgency: A sudden, strong urge to urinate that’s hard to control.
- Urge urinary incontinence – Leaking of urine associated with urgency.
- Frequency: Needing to urinate more often than usual, including at night (nocturia).
- Hesitancy: Difficulty starting urination.
- Weak stream: A stream that is slow or dribbly.
- Incomplete emptying: Feeling like the bladder doesn’t fully empty.
- Post-void dribbling: Leaking a small amount of urine after finishing.
- Stress urinary incontinence – Leaking of urine associated with downward pressure such as cough, sneeze, laugh or jump.
These symptoms can be caused by a number of factors including prostate enlargement (BPH), pelvic floor dysfunction, overactive bladder, or post-surgical changes following prostate surgery.
First Step Getting Help
The first step is to see your GP. Some of these symptoms may relate in part to prostate enlargement or other conditions. The GP assessment will decide upon any necessary investigations, medication or referral to a urologist before commencing physiotherapy.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Many men are surprised to learn that their pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in bladder control and urinary function. These muscles support the bladder and urethra, and help maintain continence. When these muscles are weak, tight, or poorly coordinated, LUTS can develop or worsen.
A men’s health physiotherapist is trained to assess and treat these underlying issues. Here’s how physiotherapy can help:
- Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
This is not just for women—men have a pelvic floor too. At Total Physiotherapy we can use the real time ultrasound to visualise how the muscles are working and use this to specifically guide men how to properly engage these muscles. This can lead to improved bladder support and reducing symptoms like urgency and leakage.
- Bladder Retraining
Bladder habits can be changed! A physiotherapist can guide you through behavioural strategies to increase the time between voids and reduce the urgency sensation, giving you more control over your bladder.
- Education and Lifestyle Advice
Sometimes, LUTS are influenced by factors like fluid intake, caffeine, alcohol, or constipation. A physiotherapist provides practical advice tailored to your lifestyle, helping you make small changes with big impacts.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above—especially if they’re affecting your day-to-day life—consider speaking with a physiotherapist who specializes in men’s pelvic health. You don’t need to “just live with it” or wait until it gets worse. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and can help you avoid more invasive treatments.
Conclusion
Lower urinary tract symptoms are common but treatable. Physiotherapy offers a conservative, effective approach that empowers men to regain control and improve their quality of life. If you’re dealing with LUTS, a tailored physiotherapy program might be the solution you didn’t know you needed.
