Prostatitis is a condition that can cause pain, urinary changes, and even sexual dysfunction in men, and it often feels both uncomfortable and frustrating. Many men are surprised to learn that pelvic floor physical therapy can play an important role in treating prostatitis, especially when symptoms linger or recur despite medications.

What is Prostatitis?

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, which sits just below the bladder. There are several types, ranging from acute bacterial infections to chronic pelvic pain syndromes. While bacterial infections are sometimes involved, many cases of prostatitis are non-bacterial, meaning the discomfort is not caused by infection but by muscle tension, nerve irritation, or changes in how the pelvic floor is functioning.

Common Symptoms of Prostatitis

Men with prostatitis may experience:

Pelvic, groin, or perineal pain
Pain with urination or ejaculation
Increased urinary frequency or urgency
Hesitancy or weak urine stream
Lower back or abdominal discomfort

These symptoms can come and go or be constant, and they often have a significant impact on quality of life.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy for prostatitis focuses on addressing the underlying musculoskeletal and nervous system contributors to symptoms. A skilled pelvic floor therapist can help by:

Assessing pelvic floor muscle tension: Many men with prostatitis have overactive or tight pelvic floor muscles, which can irritate nerves and put pressure on the prostate and bladder.
Improving relaxation and coordination: Learning how to properly relax and lengthen the pelvic floor is often just as important as strengthening.
Addressing posture and movement patterns: Tight hips, low back stiffness, or poor core support can place extra strain on the pelvic floor and urinary system.
Guiding bladder and bowel habits: Small changes in fluid intake, bathroom habits, and diet can reduce irritation and symptoms.
Providing pain management strategies: Techniques such as breathing exercises, stretches, and manual therapy can decrease pain and improve pelvic circulation.

Beyond the Prostate: Whole-Body Care

Even though prostatitis is often thought of as a “prostate problem,” the pelvic floor muscles, nervous system, and surrounding joints all play a role. That is why physical therapy takes a whole-body approach, looking at the spine, hips, and core in addition to the pelvic floor itself.

When to Seek Help

If you have ongoing prostatitis symptoms, or if antibiotics have not resolved the issue, physical therapy can be a safe and effective next step. Working with a pelvic floor specialist provides tools to reduce pain, improve urinary and sexual function, and restore confidence in daily life.

Who We Are and Why We’re Different

At Rhode Island Pelvic Wellness, we specialize exclusively in pelvic floor physical therapy for both men and women. What sets us apart is the level of time and attention we provide to each patient. Our sessions are one-on-one, never rushed, and focused entirely on your goals. We take the time to listen, thoroughly evaluate, and create an individualized plan that addresses not just the pelvic floor, but your overall health and quality of life. Our mission is to provide a supportive, comfortable environment where you feel heard, respected, and confident in your care. Lean more about us here.

Ready to book your first appointment ? Click here !

Treating Prostatitis with Physical Therapy