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Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a condition characterized by the development of scar tissue inside the penis.
This condition tends to lead to curved, painful erections. PD can result in significant distress and impact the quality of life for affected men.
While surgical and pharmacological treatments are available for PD, non-invasive methods such as penile stretching exercises, either manually or using an extender like the Phallosan Forte, can also play a role in managing this condition.
This article explores the best exercises for Peyronie’s disease, supported by evidence from reputable sources including the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the American Urological Association (AUA), and the European Association of Urology (EAU).
Table of Contents
Understanding Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease involves the formation of fibrous plaques within the tunica albuginea of the penis. This condition can lead to abnormal curvature, pain, and in some cases, erectile dysfunction.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but it one of the most common reasons is the result from repetitive microtrauma or injury to the penis, with subsequent abnormal wound healing.
Effective Exercises for Peyronie’s Disease
1. Manual Penile Stretching Exercises
Penile stretching exercises are designed to reduce curvature by gently stretching the fibrous tissue. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine indicates that consistent stretching can improve penile length and reduce curvature.1
Basic Stretching:
- Method: Hold the head of your flaccid penis and gently stretch it straight out. Maintain this position for 10-15 seconds, then release.
- Frequency: Perform this exercise 2-3 times daily.
- Benefits: Helps in elongating the penile tissue and reducing the curvature.
Directional Stretching:
- Method: Similar to basic stretching but involves stretching the penis in various directions (up, down, left, right).
- Frequency: Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds, repeating the sequence 2-3 times daily.
- Benefits: Enhances flexibility and can address curvature in different directions.
2. Penile Traction Therapy (PTT)
Penile traction devices apply a consistent stretching force to the penis, promoting tissue remodelling. According to the American Urological Association guidelines, PTT can be effective in reducing penile curvature and increasing length in patients with Peyronie’s disease.2
- Method: Use a penile traction device or a penile extender, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically for several hours daily and for several months at a time.
- Benefits: Some studies have shown significant improvement in curvature and penile length with regular use of such devices.3
3. Massage Techniques
Massage techniques focus on improving blood flow and breaking down fibrous tissue. While scientific evidence is limited, anecdotal reports and smaller studies suggest potential benefits. Side effects are almost non-existent so it’s worth trying.
Penile Massage:
- Method: Gently massage the area of the plaque using a lubricating gel to reduce friction and discomfort.
- Frequency: Perform for 5-10 minutes, twice daily.
- Benefits: May enhance blood flow and may assist in the gradual breakdown of scar tissue. (low evidence, but very low risk of injury or side effects.)
4. Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises, which strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, can improve erectile function and overall penile health. Although not directly targeting Peyronie’s plaques, they can support better sexual function and control.
- Method: Contract the pelvic floor muscles (the muscles used to stop urine flow) for 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds.
- Frequency: 10-15 repetitions, three times daily.
- Benefits: Enhanced pelvic floor strength can contribute to better erectile function, as noted in studies on pelvic floor muscle training and erectile dysfunction.4
5. Erect Bending
Erect bending involves manually straightening the penis during a semi-erect state. This should be done with caution and preferably under medical supervision to mitigate/avoid injury.
- Method: When semi-erect, gently bend the penis in the opposite direction of the curvature. Hold for 10-15 seconds.
- Frequency: Once or twice daily.
- Benefits: Aimed at counteracting curvature by mechanically stretching the fibrous tissue.
Expert Opinions
Dr. John Mulhall, a leading expert in male sexual medicine, advocates for a multimodal approach to managing Peyronie’s disease. In his book, Saving Your Sex Life: A Guide for Men with Prostate Cancer, he emphasizes the role of non-invasive therapies, including exercises and traction devices, alongside medical treatments.5
Dr. Laurence Levine, a professor of urology at Rush University Medical Center, also highlights the potential benefits of penile traction therapy and stretching exercises. In a review published in the Journal of Urology, he points out that these therapies can be particularly useful in the early stages of Peyronie’s disease when the plaques are still forming.6
FAQ
Q: What is the best exercise for Peyronie disease?
While more research is still needed, penile traction therapy devices show some promise for reducing curvature in people with Peyronie’s disease.
Q: Can exercise help Peyronie’s disease?
Gentle stretching may help penis curvature due to Peyronie’s disease. You can do gentle stretching by using a penile traction therapy device or manual modeling, which involves gently bending the erect penis in the direction opposite the curvature.
Q: How do you break up Peyronie’s plaque?
Doctors typically use injectable medications to break up plaques of collagen deposits formed due to Peyronie’s disease.
Q: How can I heal my Peyronie’s disease naturally?
Some people who develop mild Peyronie’s disease may experience disease stability, pain reduction, or spontaneous recovery. Others who develop chronic Peyronie’s disease may require treatments such as injections and surgical procedures to reduce pain and curvature
Disclaimer
We would like to remind you that this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a urologist or a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have a medical condition such as Peyronie’s disease. Individual results may vary, and it is essential to use exercises and devices as directed to avoid injury.
References
1. Levine, L. A., & Rybak, J. (2011). Penile traction therapy for treatment of Peyronie’s disease: A single-center pilot study. Journal of Sexual Medicine, 8(11), 3407-3413. doi:10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02406.x
2. Nehra, A., et al. (2015). Peyronie’s Disease: AUA Guideline. American Urological Association. Retrieved from AUA Guidelines.
3. Ther Adv Urol. 2019 Jan-Dec; 11: 1756287219838139. Published online 2019 Mar 29. doi: 10.1177/1756287219838139
4. Myers C, Smith M. Pelvic floor muscle training improves erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation: a systematic review. Physiotherapy. 2019 Jun;105(2):235-243. doi: 10.1016/j.physio.2019.01.002. Epub 2019 Jan 14. PMID: 30979506.
5. Mulhall, J. P. (2008). Saving Your Sex Life: A Guide for Men with Prostate Cancer. Hilton Publishing.
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23178395/
Immad Ud Din is a Postgraduate Urology Resident at Bahawal Victoria Hospital. With a passion for advancing urological knowledge and providing exceptional patient care. Aside from writing medical content, Immad actively engages in clinical rotations, patient care, and academic pursuits. Immad’s is committed to research, with a focus on urology.