Prostate Surgery Recovery in Coventry: Why 'Pre-hab' and Specialist Physio Are Your Best Defence

Undergoing a radical prostatectomy or prostate surgery is a life-altering event. While the primary goal is always successfully treating the cancer, the physical aftermath—specifically urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction—can leave many men feeling frustrated, embarrassed, and isolated.

For years, the standard advice given to men leaving the hospital was a quick leaflet and the instruction to "just do your pelvic floor exercises." But regaining your continence and confidence requires much more than guesswork.

As the appointed Editor for the UK’s new National POGP 'Pelvic Floor Advice for Men' Guidelines—the exact booklet traditionally handed to men after this surgery—I specialize in providing the highest national standard of prostate recovery rehabilitation right here at Delaney Physiotherapy in Coventry.

The Power of 'Pre-hab' (Before Your Surgery)

The biggest mistake men make is waiting until after their surgery to think about their pelvic floor.

Research shows that undertaking "Pre-hab" (physiotherapy before your operation) drastically improves your recovery time. Think of your pelvic floor muscles like any other muscle in your body; you want them as strong and coordinated as possible before they undergo the trauma of surgery.

During a pre-hab consultation, we work 1-on-1 to ensure you actually know how to isolate and engage the correct muscles. Trying to find and squeeze these muscles for the first time after surgery, when the area is swollen and painful, is incredibly difficult. Learning the technique beforehand gives you a massive head start.

Post-Op Rehab: Moving Beyond Basic "Kegels"

Once your catheter is removed, the real work begins. It is common to experience leaking when you cough, stand up, or lift something heavy. Many men are told this is just "part of the package," but you do not have to accept pads as a permanent new normal.

A structured, specialist physiotherapy pathway involves:

• Precision Assessment: Ensuring you are doing the exercises correctly. Up to 30% of men bear down instead of lifting up, which can actually worsen incontinence.

• Endurance and Fast-Twitch Training: Your pelvic floor needs to be able to hold a low-level squeeze all day for basic continence, but it also needs to react instantly (fast-twitch) when you sneeze. We train both.

• Functional Integration: We move you off the treatment table and teach your pelvic floor to work automatically while you are walking, lifting, or returning to golf and the gym.

• Erectile Recovery Support: We discuss and implement evidence-based strategies to encourage blood flow and support the return of erectile function.

Get National-Standard Care in the West Midlands

You have just beaten prostate cancer. You shouldn't have to battle your recovery alone.

At Delaney Physiotherapy in Coventry, you will not be handed a generic printout and sent on your way. You will work directly with a leading Men's Health Specialist to execute a structured, progressive recovery plan.

Take control of your recovery. Whether your surgery is booked for next month, or you had it a year ago and are still struggling with leaks, I can help.