Kegel Exercises for Prostate Cancer Patients

Prostate cancer affects many men in the world, and there are quite a few treatments available to help subdue and cure prostate cancer. In order to treat the symptoms of prostate cancer, there is a different type of treatment ,created in the 1940s, called Kegel exercises. These exercises will aid in the battle of prostate cancer with a few added benefits that can be used in the bedroom.

Kegel Exercises

• In the 1940s, Dr. Arnold Kegel formulated and experimented with an exercise program that would help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. Although Kegel exercises are most commonly used by women to aid in preparing the proper muscles for childbirth, men have begun using Kegel exercises to aid in the battle against prostate cancer. Kegel exercises for men will help your body regain urinary control. The exercises themselves involve clenching and tightening the pelvic muscles, and as you continue to perform the exercises over an extended period of time, your external sphincter will tone and strengthen.

When to Start

• Many times, a physician will recommend that you start exercising your pelvic muscles before a radical prostatectomy. A prostatectomy is when all or part of the prostate gland is removed because of an abnormality, such as a tumor. The prostate needs to be removed because the tumor will restrict the normal flow of urine. After the surgery, it is also recommended to continue doing the Kegel exercises to strengthen the proper muscles.

How Often to Exercise

• Recommended exercise instructions usually vary amongst physicians, but the most important thing to understand with Kegel exercises is that you must do them regularly in order for them to actually help the prostate cancer problem. An added benefit of performing the Kegel exercises is in the sexual-functions department. Doing the Kegel exercises regularly will help you have a stronger erection and get rid of the problem of premature ejaculation.