Performance Health

As we recognize Men's Health Month, it's important to talk about an often-overlooked topic: men’s pelvic health.

While often thought of as a women’s health specialty, pelvic floor dysfunction affects men, too. Upwards of 16% of men in the US experience this, many suffering in silence because of stigma or lack of screening.

Pelvic floor issues are often associated with bowel and bladder dysfunction, sexual health challenges, and disrupted abdominal pressure.

The Solution:
Pelvic floor physical therapy is the evidence-based, first-line defense. Let's normalize screening male patients for pelvic health conditions. Awareness, prevention and early intervention can dramatically improve clinical outcomes while helping men live longer and healthier lives.

The cast comes off, and patients often think they’ve crossed the finish line. But as clinicians, we know the truth: the real work is just beginning.

It’s incredibly common for patients to underestimate the importance of hand therapy post-immobilization. We play a vital role in educating them that regaining a full range of motion, grip strength, and function requires a dedicated rehabilitation plan.

Here is a quick refresher on three foundational exercises to incorporate into their Home Exercise Program (HEP) to rebuild hand and wrist strength:

Forearm Flexor Stretch: Stand or sit tall with the arm extended straight out. Using the opposite hand, gently pull the fingers down and back toward the body (elbow crease facing up). Hold for 10 seconds, then return to the starting position.

Putty Flexion Squeeze: Place a ball of therapy putty in an open, supinated palm. Actively dig the fingers into the putty, squeezing through to the palm to form a fully clenched fist. Release, reshape the putty, and repeat 10 times before switching hands.

Wrist Supination/Pronation: Seated with the forearm fully supported on a table, slowly alternate turning the palm face up (supination) and face down (pronation) while keeping the elbow stationary. Hold each end-range position for 5 seconds.

Equipping your clinic and your patients with reliable tools is key to ensuring consistent progress. Here are some staple resources for these exercises:

THERABAND Resistance Band Beginner Kit: https://brnw.ch/21x35W4
Rolyan Therapy Putty: https://brnw.ch/21x35W5
THERABAND Tube with Soft Handles: https://brnw.ch/21x35W6