Bladder Pain in Men

By Shannon Strauch, PTA, STMT-1 on 1/11/2024

Bladder pain in men can have various causes, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Some potential causes of bladder pain in men include:

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):

   Infections of the urinary tract, including the bladder, can lead to pain, discomfort, and a frequent urge to urinate.

2. Bladder Infections (Cystitis):

   Inflammation of the bladder, often caused by bacterial infections, can result in pain and discomfort.

3. Bladder Stones:

   Hard deposits of minerals in the bladder can cause pain, particularly during urination.

4. Interstitial Cystitis (IC):

   This is a chronic condition characterized by bladder pain and pressure. The cause of interstitial cystitis is not well understood, and it may involve a combination of factors, including inflammation and changes in the bladder lining.

5. Prostatitis:

   Inflammation of the prostate gland can cause pain in the pelvic region, including the bladder area. There are different types of prostatitis, including acute and chronic forms.

6. Bladder Cancer:

   In some cases, bladder pain may be a symptom of bladder cancer. However, this is less common.

7. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):

   Certain STIs, such as gonorrhea or chlamydia, can cause urinary symptoms and discomfort.

8. Radiation Cystitis:

   This can occur as a side effect of radiation therapy, particularly in men who have undergone treatment for prostate cancer.

9. Neurological Conditions:

   Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, can sometimes lead to bladder dysfunction and pain.

As a Pelvic Floor Therapist, once active infections are ruled out, we will look at the neuromuscular system and see if there are any mobility deficits in the spine, sacrum and hips that may be contributing to your bladder pain.

Often times tightness in the Obturator Internus can pull on the fascia connected to the urethra and bladder.

Men who have a desk job or sit chronically can present with increased hip flexor tightness, tightness of the anterior wall of the abdomen, and-or tightness at the median umbilicus (urachus) ligament.

If there is a musculoskeletal or neuromuscular reason for pain in the bladder to be occurring, a skilled Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist will be able to assess and create a plan of care to address any deficits.

If you or someone you know is experiencing bladder pain, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional will typically perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, medical history review, and possibly diagnostic tests such as urine analysis, imaging studies, or cystoscopy.

Self-diagnosis and self-treatment are not recommended in the case of bladder pain, as the underlying cause can vary widely, and appropriate management depends on an accurate diagnosis.

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