Chronic pelvic pain in men is a complex and often misunderstood condition. Many men experience persistent pain in the perineum, testicles, or lower abdomen that doesn’t respond to medication or antibiotics.
At Duke Men’s Health Sydney, we understand how frustrating and isolating this can be. Our Men’s Health Physiotherapists specialise in assessing and treating chronic pelvic pain using advanced physiotherapy techniques and focussed shockwave therapy.
What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)?
Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) refers to pain in the pelvic region that lasts for more than three months. The pain may:
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Feel like a dull ache, pressure, or burning in the perineum, testicles, or groin
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Worsen with sitting, cycling, or ejaculation
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Spread into the lower abdomen, buttocks, or thighs
Unlike infections or prostate inflammation, CPPS is not caused by bacteria – which is why antibiotics are often ineffective.
Common Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Men
Chronic pelvic pain often develops due to a combination of musculoskeletal, neurological, and emotional factors, such as:
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Pelvic floor muscle tension or spasm
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Nerve irritation, particularly of the pudendal or genitofemoral nerves
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Postural dysfunction or stiffness through the lower back and hips
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Stress and nervous system hypersensitivity
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Prolonged sitting or cycling, which can compress pelvic nerves and muscles
Over time, these factors can create a cycle of tightness, nerve irritation, and pain amplification – even after the initial trigger has resolved.
Physiotherapy for Male Pelvic Pain
As a Men’s Health Physiotherapist, I take a whole-body approach to understanding and treating chronic pelvic pain. Physiotherapy helps by addressing the muscle, nerve, and movement factors driving symptoms.
Your treatment plan may include:
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Pelvic floor muscle retraining to reduce overactivity and improve coordination
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Manual therapy to release tight muscles in the pelvis, hips, and lower back
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Nerve mobilisation exercises to desensitise the pudendal or femoral nerves
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Movement and posture correction to reduce strain on pelvic structures
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Breathing and relaxation strategies to calm the nervous system and improve circulation
These strategies work together to restore balance in the pelvic region and reduce chronic pain.
Focussed Shockwave Therapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain
Duke Men’s Health Sydney offers focussed shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT) as part of our multidisciplinary approach. This technology uses targeted acoustic energy to:
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Improve blood flow and tissue regeneration
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Reduce nerve sensitivity and muscle tension
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Promote healing in deep pelvic structures
For chronic pelvic pain, focussed shockwave therapy can be applied to the perineal, pubic, and gluteal regions to release deep muscle tension and improve pelvic floor function.
Clinical research supports the use of focussed shockwave in reducing pain and improving quality of life for men with pelvic floor myalgia, pudendal neuralgia, or chronic prostatitis-like symptoms.
Why Choose Duke Men’s Health Sydney
At Duke Men’s Health, our approach is individualised, evidence-based, and discreet. We collaborate closely with urologists and pain specialists to ensure you receive the most comprehensive care possible.
You’ll benefit from:
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One-on-one sessions with an experienced Men’s Health Physiotherapist
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Access to advanced focussed shockwave therapy
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Education and guided self-management tools
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A holistic approach targeting both the physical and nervous system components of pain
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you’ve been living with chronic pelvic pain, there is help available. With the right assessment and targeted physiotherapy, meaningful improvement is achievable.
Book an appointment at Duke Men’s Health Sydney today to start your recovery and take control of your pelvic health.