A prospective study by Filocamo and colleagues in 2005 investigated the effectiveness of early pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP). After catheter removal, 300 men were randomized equally into either a structured PFMT group or a control group that did not receive exercise. Incontinence was assessed by the 1-hour and 24-hour pad test, as well as the ICS-Male questionnaire.

By 6 months, almost 95% of the PFMT group achieved continence as compared to 65% of the control group. The authors concluded that an early supportive rehabilitation program like PFMT significantly decreases continence recovery time.

Filocamo M, Marzi VL, Del Popolo G, Cecconi F, Marzocco M, Tosto A, Nicita G. Effectiveness of Early Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Treatment for Post-Prostatectomy Incontinence. European Urology. 2005 Jun:48(5)734-8.

Patient: 63-year-old male who works in a lab, walks 1 mile per day for exercise.

Chief Complaint: Constant “dribbling” of urine after removal of prostate.

Patient voided every ½ hour during the day, and 2x at night. Patient used 2 pads daily, leaking 100-300 cc per day.

Past Medical History: Low back surgery, inguinal hernia repair, prostate cancer 

Physical Therapy Treatment: Biofeedback to pelvic floor; bladder retraining; pelvic floor exercise; proprioceptive muscle training; postural exercises; core strengthening; home program

Results: Patient voids once per hour, and 1x at night. Patient uses 1 thin pad, leaking 3-5 cc per day after 13 visits.