For men preparing for prostate cancer surgery in Sydney, physiotherapy can play a vital role in recovery. One of the most effective strategies is starting pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) before prostatectomy. Research shows that strengthening and learning to control these muscles before surgery can improve continence, reduce leakage, and speed up return to normal activities.
At our Northern Sydney men’s health physiotherapy clinics, we specialise in guiding men through this process, using real-time ultrasound biofeedback to make training more effective.
The Evidence for Pre-Surgery Pelvic Floor Training
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A systematic review in Frontiers in Public Health (2023) found that men who completed PFMT before prostatectomy were more likely to regain continence earlier, especially within the first three months after surgery.
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A randomized trial by Milios et al. (2019) showed that men who began training five weeks before surgery had less leakage, stronger pelvic floor function, and faster recovery than those who started later.
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A 2025 systematic review concluded that combining PFMT with aerobic and resistance training before surgery not only improved continence, but also supported better sexual function and overall quality of life.
Why Biofeedback Matters
Simply “trying to do Kegels” isn’t always enough — many men accidentally contract the wrong muscles or use poor technique. That’s where real-time ultrasound biofeedback comes in.
Using ultrasound, a qualified physiotherapist can show you exactly how your pelvic floor is moving during exercise. This immediate feedback helps you:
- Learn the correct technique from the start.
- Strengthen the right muscles more efficiently.
- Build both strength and endurance, so your pelvic floor can cope better after surgery.
At our clinics in Northern Sydney, we use transperineal ultrasound to guide pelvic floor muscle training — helping men achieve faster and more reliable improvements after prostatectomy.
Benefits of Starting Pelvic Floor Training Before Prostatectomy
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Faster return to continence: Less leakage in the early months after surgery.
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Better muscle control: Improved ability to contract and relax the pelvic floor.
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Reduced pad use: Studies show men often require fewer continence pads.
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Improved quality of life: Greater confidence and independence after treatment.
Getting Started in Northern Sydney
If you’re preparing for prostate cancer surgery, starting pelvic floor muscle training 4–6 weeks before the operation can make a significant difference. Working with a qualified men’s health physiotherapist ensures you receive:
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A tailored exercise program.
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Access to real-time ultrasound biofeedback.
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Ongoing support through the pre- and post-surgery journey.
Take the Next Step
At our Northern Sydney clinics, we regularly support men before and after prostatectomy to regain bladder control, rebuild confidence, and return to the activities they enjoy.
Contact us today to book an appointment and learn how pelvic floor training — with expert guidance and ultrasound biofeedback — can help improve your recovery after prostate cancer surgery.