Prostate Cancer
May 21, 2025
Prostate cancer is a significant health concern, particularly for men over 50, arising when abnormal cells in the prostate gland grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 26,000 cases in 2024 and a lifetime risk of 1 in 6 by age 85. Early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms, but advanced cases may involve urinary frequency, pain during urination, blood in urine/semen, or bone pain. Risk factors include age, family history (especially BRCA gene mutations), and elevated testosterone levels.
How Is Prostate Cancer Diagnosed?
There’s no single test for prostate cancer. Diagnosis usually involves:
- PSA Blood Test: Measures a protein made by the prostate. High PSA can mean cancer, but also other prostate issues. PSA testing can help catch cancer early, but it’s not perfect-sometimes it leads to unnecessary worry or treatment. Talk to your GP about the pros and cons for you.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): Your doctor feels the prostate for lumps. This is quick and safe, but not always needed-especially if your PSA is normal.
- Imaging & Biopsy: If cancer is suspected, scans and a biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample) confirm the diagnosis.
Your Role in Care Decisions
A prostate cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Pelvic Health Melbourne, we encourage you to:
Ask questions and take notes. Bring a support person to appointments.
Discuss all your options. Your treatment will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, your overall health, and what matters most to you. Options may include:
- Active surveillance (monitoring the cancer closely)
- Surgery to remove the prostate
- Radiation therapy
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy or participation in clinical trials
Take your time. Most prostate cancers grow slowly. You usually have time to consider, seek a second opinion, and decide what’s right for you.
Access support. Emotional and practical support-through family, friends, counsellors, or support groups-can make a big difference.
The Importance of Pelvic Health Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a key part of prostate cancer care-before and after treatment. Our team at Pelvic Health Melbourne works closely with you and your doctors and specialists to help you achieve the best possible recovery.
Goals of Physiotherapy in Prostate Cancer Care
- Restore and Maintain Bladder Control: Regain continence and reduce urinary leakage with targeted pelvic floor muscle training and education.
- Enhance Pelvic Floor and Sexual Function: Strengthen and retrain pelvic floor muscles to support continence and sexual health, especially after surgery.
- Reduce and Manage Pain: Ease pelvic or post-surgical pain with evidence-based techniques.
- Support Physical Recovery: Improve strength, flexibility, and stamina to help you return to daily life.
- Promote Safe, Effective Exercise: Tailored activity helps manage fatigue and maintain muscle and bone health.
- Educate and Empower: Learn correct pelvic floor activation, self-management strategies, and lifestyle tips to support your recovery.
- Support Emotional Well-being: Address psychological impacts and help you return to the activities you value.
- Prevent and Manage Complications: Reduce risks like falls or bone loss, especially if you’re on hormone therapy.
- Coordinate Care: We work with your broader medical team and refer to other specialists as needed.
What Can You Expect from Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?
- Faster recovery of bladder control and reduced urinary leakage
- Improved pelvic floor strength and function, supporting continence and sexual health
- Reduced pelvic pain and discomfort
- Better understanding of your body and how to manage symptoms
- Support in returning to daily activities, work, and exercise
- Improved confidence and quality of life
Early referral to physiotherapy-ideally before surgery-can maximize your recovery. Research shows up to
94% of men regain bladder control within three to six months
after prostate surgery with physiotherapy support.
At Pelvic Health Melbourne, we’re here to help you take an active role in your prostate cancer journey. If you have questions about pelvic health, continence, or recovery, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.
For more information or to book an appointment, contact us today.
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Pelvic pain can be a distressing and often misunderstood condition, affecting both men and women. One lesser-known cause of chronic pelvic pain is pudendal neuralgia, a condition that occurs when the pudendal nerve, which supplies sensation and function to the pelvic area, becomes compressed or irritated. This can lead to debilitating symptoms that impact daily life, from sitting comfortably to engaging in intimate activities. Despite its significant impact, pudendal neuralgia is frequently underdiagnosed. In this blog, we’ll explore what pudendal neuralgia is, its symptoms, potential causes, and how pelvic health physiotherapy can play a crucial role in managing and alleviating symptoms. What is Pudendal Neuralgia? Pudendal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that results from irritation, compression, or damage to the pudendal nerve. This nerve runs from the lower back through the pelvic floor and is responsible for sensation and function in the genitals, perineum, and anus. When compressed or irritated, it can lead to persistent and often severe pain. Common Symptoms of Pudendal Neuralgia Symptoms of pudendal neuralgia can vary from person to person, but common signs include: Burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the pelvic region Pain that worsens when sitting and improves when standing or lying down Numbness, tingling, or a “foreign object” sensation in the rectum or genitals Pain during or after sexual activity Bladder or bowel dysfunction , such as urgency, frequency, or difficulty emptying These symptoms can be frustrating and debilitating, often leading to emotional distress, anxiety, and a decreased quality of life. What Causes Pudendal Neuralgia? There are several potential causes of pudendal neuralgia, including: Prolonged sitting (especially on hard surfaces or during cycling) Pelvic trauma or surgery that affects the nerve Muscle tension or tightness in the pelvic floor Childbirth injuries Nerve entrapment or compression from scar tissue or inflammation Medical conditions such as endometriosis or interstitial cystitis Since pudendal neuralgia can have multiple contributing factors, proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is essential for effective treatment. How Can Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Help? Pelvic health physiotherapy is a non-invasive and effective approach to managing pudendal neuralgia. A trained pelvic health physiotherapist can assess your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include: Manual Therapy & Myofascial Release – Helps release muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area. Pelvic Floor Relaxation Techniques – Since tight pelvic muscles can contribute to nerve irritation, learning how to properly relax these muscles is key. Postural & Movement Retraining – Poor posture or movement patterns can put extra strain on the pudendal nerve. Physiotherapy can help correct these imbalances. Nerve Mobilization & Desensitization Exercises – These gentle techniques help the nerve glide freely and reduce pain. Lifestyle Modifications & Ergonomic Adjustments – Small changes like using a cushioned seat, avoiding prolonged sitting, and modifying certain activities can significantly reduce symptoms. Seeking Help & Finding Relief If you’re struggling with persistent pelvic pain, you’re not alone. Many people suffer in silence due to a lack of awareness and understanding about conditions like pudendal neuralgia. Fortunately, pelvic health physiotherapy can provide significant relief by addressing the root cause of pain and improving function. Don’t let pelvic pain control your life. If you suspect you have pudendal neuralgia, consider consulting a pelvic health physiotherapist to explore treatment options tailored to your needs.
Understanding Bladder Urgency and Overactive Bladder: How to Regain Control Do you often find yourself rushing to the bathroom or struggling with an uncontrollable urge to urinate? You’re not alone! Bladder urgency and overactive bladder (OAB) affect millions of people, disrupting daily life and causing frustration. The good news? There are ways to manage these symptoms and take back control of your bladder health. What Is Bladder Urgency and Overactive Bladder? Bladder urgency is the sudden and intense need to urinate, often making it difficult to delay a trip to the bathroom. Overactive bladder (OAB) takes this a step further, causing frequent urination, urgency, and sometimes even leakage (urge incontinence). These symptoms can occur day and night, impacting sleep, work, and social activities. What Causes These Symptoms? Bladder urgency and OAB can stem from various factors, including: Bladder muscle overactivity – The bladder contracts too often, creating a frequent urge to urinate. Nerve dysfunction – Conditions like diabetes, stroke, or spinal cord injuries can affect bladder control. Hormonal changes – Menopause or hormonal imbalances may contribute to OAB symptoms. Dietary triggers – Caffeine, alcohol, salty foods, and artificial sweeteners can irritate the bladder. Pelvic floor dysfunction – Weak or tight pelvic floor muscles can contribute to poor bladder control. How Can You Manage Bladder Urgency and OAB? The first step to managing OAB is understanding what triggers your symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like adjusting fluid intake, avoiding bladder irritants, and practicing bladder training techniques, can make a significant difference. How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help? Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for bladder urgency and OAB. A pelvic floor physio or osteo can help you: Strengthen or relax pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder control. Retrain your bladder with behavioral techniques and deferral strategies . Reduce tension in the pelvic floor. Transtibial Nerve Stimulations using TENS (TTNS) If you’re struggling with bladder urgency or OAB, you don’t have to suffer in silence. With the right strategies and support, including pelvic floor physiotherapy, you can regain confidence and improve your quality of life. Reach out to a pelvic health professional today and take the first step toward better bladder health!
Nipple pain is more common than many people realize, yet it’s often dismissed or overlooked. It can be sharp, burning, achy, or sensitive to touch, making everyday activities like breastfeeding, exercise, or even wearing certain fabrics uncomfortable. While nipple pain is frequently associated with breastfeeding, it can also stem from hormonal changes, postural issues, post-surgical recovery, or nerve-related sensitivity. The good news? Pelvic health physiotherapy can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing the underlying causes of nipple pain. What Causes Nipple Pain? Nipple pain can have a variety of causes, and understanding the root issue is the first step toward effective relief. Here are some of the most common contributors: Breastfeeding Challenges Latch issues – A poor latch can lead to excess strain and nipple trauma. Blocked ducts – When milk isn’t draining properly, it can cause pain and swelling. Mastitis – A painful inflammation of the breast tissue that can cause redness, warmth, and tenderness. Postural Strain Poor posture while feeding, carrying a baby, or working at a desk can lead to muscle imbalances, which can place stress on the chest, shoulders, and back. Hunched shoulders and forward head posture can cause tightness in the upper body, restricting blood flow and increasing sensitivity. Hormonal Changes Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and menopause can all lead to changes in breast tissue and increased sensitivity. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased fluid retention, swelling, and tenderness in the breast and nipple area. Nerve Sensitivity Previous breast surgeries (such as augmentations, reductions, or mastectomies) can lead to nerve irritation or damage, resulting in lingering pain or hypersensitivity. Nerve compression in the neck, upper back, or even the ribs can radiate discomfort to the chest and nipples. Muscle Tension and Imbalances Tension in the chest muscles (pectorals), neck, and back can lead to restricted movement and pain. Even pelvic floor dysfunction can play a role, as core stability and muscle imbalances throughout the body can contribute to discomfort in seemingly unrelated areas. How Can Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Help? Pelvic health physiotherapy isn’t just about the pelvic floor—it focuses on how the entire musculoskeletal system, nerves, and fascia work together , recognizing that pain in one area can stem from imbalances elsewhere. A pelvic health physiotherapist takes a whole-body approach to treating nipple pain, targeting the underlying causes rather than just the symptoms. Here’s how they can help: Postural Corrections & Muscle Balance – Your therapist can assess your posture and guide you through exercises to reduce strain on the chest, shoulders, and neck, which can alleviate pain over time. Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Release – Gentle hands-on techniques can help release tight muscles, improve circulation, and reduce sensitivity in the nipple and breast area. Nerve Mobilization Techniques – If nerve sensitivity is contributing to your pain, specific mobilization techniques can help desensitize and restore normal nerve function. Breastfeeding Support & Positioning Advice – For postpartum individuals, physiotherapists trained in lactation support can help optimize breastfeeding positions, reducing strain on the nipples and chest muscles. Pelvic Floor & Core Strengthening – Because the core, back, and pelvic floor are all connected , strengthening these areas can improve overall posture and muscle balance, reducing tension that may be contributing to pain. When to See a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist If you experience ongoing nipple pain that doesn’t seem to improve with basic adjustments, it’s worth consulting a pelvic health physiotherapist. Here are some signs that professional help may be beneficial: Pain persists despite changing breastfeeding positions or techniques. You experience burning or shooting pain that radiates from the nipple to the chest or back. Postural changes don’t seem to relieve discomfort. You’ve had previous breast surgeries or injuries that may have affected nerve function. Hormonal shifts lead to significant pain that disrupts daily activities. Take the First Step Toward Relief Nipple pain can be distressing, but you don’t have to suffer in silence . Our pelvic health physiotherapists are trained to take a comprehensive, individualized approach to care, helping you find relief through targeted treatments and lifestyle adjustments. If you’re struggling with persistent discomfort, reaching out could be the key to restoring comfort and confidence in your body.
