International Men's Health Week - June 9th-15th
Men’s Health Week is an important annual event that brings attention to the specific health challenges men face, both physically and mentally. It’s a chance to encourage men of all ages to take their health seriously, check in with their bodies, and talk more openly about issues that are often left unspoken.
At its core, Men’s Health Week 2025 is about awareness, prevention, and action. Whether it’s managing back pain, pelvic pain, incontinence, staying active as you age, or addressing mental health, this week serves as a powerful reminder for men to prioritise their well being, not just when something goes wrong, but every day.
As physiotherapists, we play an active role in supporting men’s health by helping to manage pain, improve mobility, prevent injury, and support recovery across all stages of life. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of Men’s Health Week, the common issues men face, and how physiotherapy can make a meaningful difference.
Urinary incontinence
Urinary incontinence is the unintentional loss of urine and commonly affects men, especially after prostate surgery (prostatectomy). This surgery can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, which are essential for bladder control. Starting pelvic floor exercises before or after surgery can significantly improve symptoms and help regain control.
Other causes include Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) and poor toileting habits, both of which can lead to increased frequency, urgency, or leakage. Physiotherapy can help strengthen the pelvic floor to reduce these symptoms.
Pelvic Pain
Male pelvic pain, most commonly known as Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), is the most frequent type of prostatitis and is typically caused by overactive pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are crucial for bladder and bowel control but, when overly tense, they can’t relax properly, leading to pain in the perineum, pelvis, or genitals. Other symptoms may include urinary urgency or frequency, difficulty urinating, and sexual dysfunction such as premature ejaculation or pain during ejaculation.
Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing CPPS by helping to release tension in the pelvic floor, improve muscle coordination, and address related symptoms. Treatment may include manual therapy, pelvic floor re-education, relaxation techniques, and tailored exercises. At Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, our clinic director Aileen Maguire specialises in treating pelvic pain, contact us for an expert assessment and support.
Prostatectomy
Following prostatectomy, many men experience urinary incontinence due to the removal of pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in bladder control. These muscles, located at the base of the pelvis, support pelvic organs and help regulate bladder and bowel function.
Physiotherapy can significantly aid recovery after prostate surgery. A physiotherapist trained in pelvic floor rehabilitation can help you correctly identify and strengthen these muscles, improving bladder control and confidence. Starting pelvic floor exercises before surgery can also enhance recovery and give a sense of control during a challenging time. At Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, we’re here to support your recovery with personalised care and expert guidance.
Osteoporosis in Men
Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease because it typically isn’t diagnosed until a fracture occurs. It weakens bones by disrupting their natural rebuilding process, making them more prone to breaks. Osteopenia, the early stage of osteoporosis, serves as a warning to take preventive steps like maintaining healthy levels of calcium, vitamin D, and engaging in regular weight bearing exercise. While often associated with women, osteoporosis in men is under-recognised, 1 in 4 men over 50 will experience a fracture due to this condition.
Risk factors include poor diet, low calcium and vitamin D, alcohol and tobacco use certain medications, and inactivity. Diagnosis typically involves a risk factor assessment and a scan to measure bone density in the hips and spine. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes, improving nutrition, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and most importantly, regular weight exercise. A physiotherapist can help develop a safe, personalised exercise plan to maintain bone health and reduce fall risk.
Conclusion
Men’s health encompasses a wide range of physical and mental challenges that are often under recognised and under discussed, from prostate health and urinary incontinence to pelvic pain, osteoporosis, and more. These conditions can have a significant impact on daily life, but the good news is that many are manageable or even preventable with early intervention, lifestyle changes, and the right support. Physiotherapy plays a key role, offering targeted treatment plans that promote recovery, improve quality of life, and empower men to take control of their health. This Men’s Health Week, let it be a reminder to prioritise your well being.
Mens Health Clinic
Here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic we have years of experience in helping men through a range of different health issues.