CPPS Is Not Just an “Old Man’s Condition”

One of the most common misconceptions about CPPS is that it only affects older men. In reality, CPPS is prevalent across a wide age range, particularly among men in their 30s and 40s, many of whom are active and healthy . Studies have shown that CPPS is often seen in younger men, with an average age of onset in the 30s . Despite its prevalence, many men are hesitant to seek help due to the personal and sensitive nature of the symptoms.

CPPS and Athletes: The Role of the Overactive Pelvic Floor

We often see athletes, particularly runners, cyclists, and weightlifters, experiencing CPPS. Their symptoms are frequently linked to an overactive pelvic floor—a condition where the muscles in the pelvic region become tight and hypertonic due to overuse or strain. Athletes are more likely to develop chronic tension in this area because their core and pelvic muscles are constantly engaged during training, leading to pelvic pain, urinary issues, and testicular discomfort .

An overactive pelvic floor can also lead to testicular pain, as the surrounding muscles may create pressure or pull on structures linked to the testes, increasing discomfort during physical activity or sexual function.

How Stress and Muscle Tension Play a Role

CPPS is commonly linked to pelvic floor dysfunction and muscle tension. The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs, can become tight due to chronic stress, poor posture, or repetitive movements in sports. This tightness can lead to pressure, pain, and dysfunction in both the pelvic region and testes. Stress plays a large role in how the body holds tension, and the pelvic floor is particularly sensitive to these effects .

Many athletes and active men experience pelvic floor tension due to the demands of their sport, further exacerbating symptoms such as pelvic and testicular pain. Managing stress and tension in the pelvic floor is key to reducing these symptoms.

The Osteopathic Approach to CPPS

At City Osteopathy, we take a holistic, patient-centred approach to managing CPPS in men. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, we aim to identify and treat the root cause of the pain. Here’s how osteopathy can help:

1. Releasing Muscle Tension in the Pelvic Floor
   In many cases, CPPS is driven by an overactive or tight pelvic floor. Osteopathic treatment focuses on releasing tension in these muscles through gentle manipulation and soft tissue techniques. By improving blood flow and reducing muscle tightness, we help alleviate both pelvic and testicular pain, restoring healthy function .

2. Improving Posture and Alignment
   Poor posture and musculoskeletal imbalances—particularly in the lower back, hips, and pelvis—can exacerbate CPPS. Athletes, in particular, may develop imbalances due to repetitive movement patterns or muscle overuse. At City Osteopathy, we assess your posture and identify any areas of misalignment, helping to relieve pressure on the pelvic floor and testes, preventing pain from recurring .

3. Supporting the Nervous System
   CPPS can also be linked to overactivity in the nervous system, causing the pelvic muscles to remain in a state of tension. Our osteopaths use techniques to calm the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the hypersensitivity that can contribute to pelvic and testicular pain .

4. Addressing Breathing Patterns
   Athletes and men with CPPS often engage in shallow, stressed breathing patterns, which can place additional strain on the diaphragm and pelvic floor. Osteopathic treatment helps restore healthy diaphragmatic breathing, encouraging the pelvic floor and diaphragm to work together harmoniously, reducing tension in the pelvic area and alleviating testicular discomfort.

Lifestyle, Stress, and Recovery

At City Osteopathy, we believe that managing CPPS goes beyond osteopathic treatment. Lifestyle factors play a crucial role in both the development and resolution of this condition. We work with patients to address stress, posture, and movement habits that may be contributing to their pain. For athletes, we provide specific advice on managing pelvic floor tension and incorporating relaxation techniques into their routines.

We also recommend tailored exercises to improve pelvic floor function and relaxation techniques to reduce overall stress. By addressing the physical and mental aspects of CPPS, we help patients achieve long-term relief.

A Trusted, Collaborative Approach

At City Osteopathy, our team of massage therapists and osteopaths work together to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. This collaborative approach ensures that every aspect of your health is considered, and that you receive unified, professional care. Our osteopaths work closely with our therapists to provide consistent treatment that aligns with your health goals.

Don’t Let Pelvic Pain Control Your Life

CPPS can be a frustrating and difficult condition to live with, especially for men with active lifestyles. But it doesn’t have to control your life. At City Osteopathy, we provide a holistic, personalised approach to treating CPPS. By addressing both the physical and emotional components of this condition, we help you find relief and regain comfort.

References:

1. Anderson, R. U., Wise, D., Sawyer, T., & Chan, C. A. (2006). Integration of myofascial trigger point release and paradoxical relaxation training treatment of chronic pelvic pain in men. The Journal of Urology, 176(4), 1346-1351.

2. Grinberg, A., Gleason, J. L., & Safran, J. (2017). Musculoskeletal contributors to pelvic pain: Implications for pelvic rehabilitation. Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy, 41(2), 86-95.

3. Hetrick, D. C., Iverson, A. J., & Shoskes, D. A. (2010). Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in men: A clinical approach. Prostate Cancer and Prostatic Diseases, 13(4), 275-279.

4. Nickel, J. C. (2002). Prostatitis and related conditions, orchitis, and epididymitis. Campbell-Walsh Urology, 299-337.

5. Fitzgerald, M. P., Anderson, R. U., Potts, J., & Rothman, I. (2008). Pelvic muscle tenderness in men with chronic pelvic pain syndrome: The Chronic Prostatitis Collaborative Research Network. The Journal of Urology, 179(5), 1887-1893.

6. Weiss, J. M. (2001). Pelvic floor myofascial trigger points: Manual therapy for interstitial cystitis and the urgency-frequency syndrome. Journal of Urology, 166(6), 2226-2231.