Physical activity as an adjunct treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Nat Rev Urol
; 16(9): 553-562, 2019 09.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-31239541
ABSTRACT
Increasing data are available to suggest that physical activity and lifestyle modification in general can benefit erectile function, with effect sizes comparable with established treatment options such as testosterone therapy and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Despite this evidence, primary-care physicians are rarely afforded critical information on the underlying mechanisms through which physical activity works as a treatment, severely hampering treatment credibility for both physician and patient. Physical activity is associated with psychological and metabolic adaptations that are compatible with the adaptations required for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED). These adaptations include increased expression and activity of nitric oxide synthase, strengthened endothelial function, acute rises in testosterone, decreased stress and anxiety, and improved body image. Use of physical activity as a first-line treatment option for ED is limited, and explicit physical activity guidelines for the treatment of ED are required. Such guidelines should include not only a suggested exercise programme but also guidelines for physician-patient communication that might enhance patient receptivity and therapy continuation. An understanding of how physical activity affects erectile function, as well as its effectiveness in treating ED compared with other established treatments, can benefit urologists and primary-care physicians searching for noninvasive treatment options for men presenting with poor erectile function.
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Exercise
/
Exercise Therapy
/
Erectile Dysfunction
Type of study:
Guideline
Limits:
Humans
/
Male
Language:
En
Journal:
Nat Rev Urol
Journal subject:
UROLOGIA
Year:
2019
Document type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Australia