Erectile Dysfunction Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor rehabilitation is a clinically proven, non-pharmacological treatment for erectile dysfunction — particularly vasculogenic and post-surgical ED. Discreet, evidence-based care in Sydney's Inner West.
Can Physiotherapy Help with Erectile Dysfunction?
Yes — and the evidence is stronger than most men (and many GPs) realise. Erectile dysfunction affects more than half of Australian men over 40, yet the majority of cases are managed solely through medication or left untreated. What is consistently underutilised is pelvic floor physiotherapy — a targeted, non-invasive approach with a strong evidence base for specific types of ED, particularly where vascular or muscular mechanisms are involved.
The ischiocavernosus and bulbocavernosus muscles compress the veins at the base of the penis during erection, maintaining rigidity by preventing blood from escaping. When these muscles are weak or poorly coordinated, venous leakage occurs, resulting in difficulty maintaining an erection even when arousal and blood flow are sufficient.
A landmark randomised controlled trial by Dorey et al. found that pelvic floor muscle training resulted in 40% of men with erectile dysfunction regaining normal function — compared to 17% in the lifestyle advice group, and without any pharmacological intervention.
Types of ED That Respond to Physiotherapy
Not all erectile dysfunction is the same. A thorough assessment at Atlas Physio will determine whether pelvic floor rehabilitation is appropriate for your presentation and whether referral to a urologist is also warranted.
Vasculogenic ED
The most common type. Caused by impaired blood flow or venous leakage. Pelvic floor training directly addresses venous leakage mechanisms and is a primary treatment option.
Post-Prostatectomy ED
Affects the majority of men after radical prostatectomy. Pelvic floor rehabilitation is part of a comprehensive erectile recovery protocol alongside your urologist's management.
Post-Radiotherapy ED
Radiation therapy for prostate or colorectal cancer can affect pelvic floor neuromuscular function. Physiotherapy supports recovery of muscle function and coordination.
Lifestyle-Related ED
Often involving a combination of vascular, hormonal, and muscular factors. Physiotherapy is most effective as part of a broader health approach including GP or psychology input.
Important: Erectile dysfunction can be the first clinical sign of cardiovascular disease. Before beginning physiotherapy, your GP should rule out underlying cardiac or metabolic causes. Atlas Physio works collaboratively with your medical team.
What Happens at Your Appointment
Your initial appointment is a private, one-on-one consultation with Tom Dixon. All clinical discussions are strictly confidential. The assessment covers your symptoms, medical background, and relevant lifestyle factors, followed by a physical assessment of pelvic floor muscle function using real-time ultrasound biofeedback.
Assessment includes:
- Detailed symptom and medical history — including surgical, urological, and cardiovascular background
- Real-time ultrasound (RTUS) biofeedback to assess pelvic floor muscle activation and coordination
- Assessment of superficial pelvic floor muscle function relevant to erectile mechanics
- Review of lifestyle factors including exercise, sleep, alcohol use, and cardiovascular health
Treatment typically includes:
- Progressive pelvic floor muscle training program specific to your assessed deficits
- Biofeedback-guided exercise to ensure correct activation
- Education on the physiological mechanisms of erection and how training addresses them
- Integration with any pharmacological management from your GP or urologist
- Ongoing progressive programming across a 6–12 week rehabilitation cycle
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Most men complete 6–8 sessions over 8–12 weeks. Improvement in erectile function typically becomes noticeable at the 4–6 week mark. Men with post-surgical ED may require a longer timeline depending on nerve recovery status.
You will be given a detailed home exercise program that progresses between appointments. Consistency with the home program is one of the strongest predictors of outcome.
All consultations at Atlas Physio are private and confidential. Your clinical information is held in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 and AHPRA professional standards. You do not need a GP referral to book.
Take the First Step
Discreet, evidence-based physiotherapy for erectile dysfunction. One-on-one appointments in Leichhardt, Inner West Sydney.
Book Your Initial Appointment