Symptoms
- Flaccid penis that often feels semi-rigid
- Loss of strength in erection quality
- Changes in penile sensation, such as a feeling of coldness or numbness, focused on the penis head
- Discomfort in the penis and perineal area during urination and ejaculation, tends to be more severe when standing
- Erectile problems noted in some men
- Reports of pelvic floor muscle constriction or tenseness
- Psychological effects of these symptoms causing distress such as anxiety, low mood, reduced sexual drive, and sleep issues
Associated Diagnoses
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), Male Pelvic Pain, Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis, and Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome are all conditions characterized by pain that may be associated with or coexist alongside Hard-flaccid Syndrome.
Causes of Hard-flaccid Syndrome
- It could be triggered by a traumatic incident, such as using a penile vacuum or pump, engaging in rough masturbation or intercourse, manually over-stretching the penis (jelqing), or excessive squatting.
- Injury to the base of the penis may impair the nerves or vessels supplying the penis and the pelvic floor muscles.
- The initial injury, leading to emotional distress, might hyperstimulate a segment of the nervous system, causing pelvic floor muscle contraction.
- Prolonged contractions of the pelvic floor muscles may compress surrounding nerves and vessels, resulting in sensory changes like numbness or a cold sensation, as well as pelvic floor muscle tension and discomfort.
- The ongoing muscle contraction necessary for achieving and maintaining an erection could compromise the venous structures of the penis, resulting in a semi-erect state when flaccid.
Diagnostic Challenges
The collection of symptoms known as Hard-flaccid Syndrome, despite lacking a formal diagnosis, has gained attention through online discussions, with little to no detailed explanation available from current medical sources.
Moreover, several symptoms associated with Hard-flaccid syndrome are similar to those experienced by individuals with CPPS/Male Pelvic Pain Syndrome and Chronic Nonbacterial Prostatitis. While these conditions have clear definitions, they pose their own challenges in terms of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Furthermore, many pelvic floor physical therapists are primarily trained to treat women, but at PHRC in Los Angeles, we provide equal care to both men and women.
How We Can Help You
Men facing Hard-flaccid Syndrome can find relief through an evaluation with a pelvic floor physical therapist who specializes in pelvic pain in Los Angeles. Throughout the assessment, the therapist delves into your medical history, symptoms, past diagnoses, and treatment responses. Understanding the frustration you may be experiencing, they perform a comprehensive physical examination, assessing muscles, tissues, nerves, joints, and movement patterns. After completing the examination, they discuss their findings with you and devise a treatment plan with both short- and long-term objectives.
Commonly, clients engage in physical therapy sessions one to two times a week for a duration of about 12 weeks. In Los Angeles, at-home exercises tailored to your needs will support these sessions. Additionally, your physical therapist will coordinate with your medical team to ensure your treatment is comprehensive. It’s our privilege to assist you on the road to recovery and a fulfilling life!