How Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology Support Prostate Cancer Recovery

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, and while advances in treatment have dramatically improved outcomes, the recovery journey can still be physically and emotionally demanding. Side effects such as fatigue, muscle loss, incontinence, pain, and reduced mobility can significantly affect quality of life.This is where physiotherapy and exercise physiology play a powerful, evidence-based role.

Both disciplines provide targeted, personalised support that not only helps people manage treatment side effects but can also improve long-term health, independence, and confidence.

Why Movement Is Medicine in Prostate Cancer Recovery

Cancer treatments—including surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy (ADT), and chemotherapy—can impact strength, balance, pelvic floor function, and overall physical capacity. Research consistently shows that structured exercise and specialised rehabilitation can:

• Improve treatment tolerance

• Reduce fatigue

• Preserve muscle mass and bone density

• Manage or prevent weight gain from ADT

• Restore pelvic floor and bladder control

• Improve mobility and physical function

• Reduce anxiety and depression

• Enhance overall wellbeing and long-term survivorship

Physiotherapists and Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are uniquely equipped to deliver these benefits safely and effectively.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Prostate Cancer Recovery

1. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation

After prostate surgery (particularly radical prostatectomy), urinary incontinence is one of the most common concerns.Physiotherapists trained in pelvic health help patients:

• Activate and strengthen pelvic floor muscles

• Improve bladder control and urgency

• Reduce leakage during daily activities and exercise

• Build confidence returning to work, sport, and social situations

Effective pelvic floor physiotherapy can dramatically shorten the time it takes to regain continence.

2. Pain and Mobility Management

Surgery and radiation can lead to scar tightness, stiffness, and difficulty moving. Physiotherapy supports recovery through:

• Gentle mobility and stretching programs

• Manual therapy to reduce stiffness

• Posture correction and movement retraining

• Strategies to reduce pelvic, hip, or lower back discomfort

These interventions help patients regain ease of movement and return to daily activities sooner.

3. Restoring Functional Strength

Loss of strength is common during and after treatment, especially with hormonal therapy. Physiotherapists design targeted strengthening programs that support:

• Core stability

• Hip and lower-limb strength

• Lifting, bending, and day-to-day functional movements

• Safe progression back into exercise

The Role of Exercise Physiology in Prostate Cancer Recovery

1. Managing the Effects of Hormone Therapy (ADT)

Androgen Deprivation Therapy can cause significant body composition changes, including reduced muscle mass, increased fat mass, and decreased bone density.Accredited Exercise Physiologists specialise in counteracting these effects with:

• Resistance training to preserve muscle

• Weight-bearing exercise to improve bone health

• Cardiovascular training to support heart health and metabolism

• Programs designed to reduce abdominal fat and maintain a healthy weight

Evidence shows that structured exercise can significantly reduce the long-term metabolic risks associated with ADT.

2. Reducing Cancer-Related Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common and debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.Exercise physiology interventions can:

• Improve energy levels and stamina

• Enhance sleep quality

• Reduce the physical and emotional burden of fatigue

• Support a return to normal daily routines

Regular, guided exercise is one of the most effective non-pharmaceutical treatments for cancer-related fatigue.

3. Improving Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health

Prostate cancer treatments can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, weight gain, and metabolic dysfunction.AEPs design long-term programs to:

• Improve heart health

• Support healthy weight management

• Enhance glucose regulation

• Reduce overall chronic disease risk