HFS

Hard-Flaccid Syndrome (HFS) is a condition characterised by the penis feeling firm or semi-rigid while in a flaccid state. This condition can cause significant discomfort and distress, and its exact cause is not fully understood. It is considered a subset of pelvic floor dysfunction and is often associated with other symptoms of chronic pelvic pain.

Overview of Hard-Flaccid Syndrome (HFS)

1. Symptoms:

  • A constant feeling of firmness or semi-erection in the penis even when not aroused.
  • Pain or discomfort in the penis, perineum (area between the anus and genitals), lower abdomen, or pelvic region.
  • Sensation of tightness, tension, or heaviness in the pelvic floor area.
  • Erectile dysfunction or difficulty maintaining an erection.
  • Reduced penile sensation or numbness.
  • Changes in urinary function, such as increased urgency or frequency.
  • Psychological symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, often due to the chronic nature of the condition.

2. Possible Causes:

  • Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Overactive or tense pelvic floor muscles can cause pain and an altered state of the penis.
  • Nerve Entrapment or Compression: Involvement of nerves such as the pudendal nerve, which supplies the pelvic region.
  • Vascular Issues: Reduced or altered blood flow to the penis.
  • Trauma or Injury: Physical injury to the pelvic area or penis can trigger symptoms.
  • Psychological Factors: Anxiety, stress, or psychological trauma related to sexual performance or physical injury.
  • Overstimulation or Overtraining: Excessive masturbation, use of penis pumps, or intense sexual activity may contribute to the onset of symptoms.

3. Diagnosis:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms and conduct a physical examination, often focusing on the pelvic region and penile sensation.
  • Imaging Studies: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to rule out structural issues, nerve entrapment, or vascular abnormalities.
  • Urodynamic Tests: To evaluate urinary function and detect possible involvement of the urinary tract.

4. Treatment Options:

  • Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to relax and rehabilitate pelvic floor muscles, often combined with biofeedback or trigger point therapy.
  • Medications:
    • Pain Relievers: NSAIDs or other pain relief medications.
    • Muscle Relaxants: To reduce muscle tension in the pelvic floor.
    • Neuropathic Pain Medications: Such as gabapentin or pregabalin for nerve-related pain.
  • Psychological Support: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling to address anxiety, depression, or other psychological factors.
  • Lifestyle Modifications:
    • Reducing activities that put pressure on the pelvic floor, such as cycling or heavy lifting.
    • Avoiding overstimulation or overtraining of the penis.
  • Alternative Treatments: Acupuncture, relaxation techniques, or other holistic therapies that may help alleviate symptoms.

5. Self-care and Home Remedies:

  • Warm Baths or Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the pelvic area to relax muscles.
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress and tension.
  • Gentle Stretching and Exercise: To maintain overall flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.

If you need more specific advice or information on managing Hard-Flaccid Syndrome, feel free to ask!

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FAQ's

What is Shockwave Therapy?

Low-Intensity Shockwave Therapy (Li-SWT) is a treatment modality that utilizes acoustic (sound) waves to target damaged or impaired tissue to encourage the body to create healthier tissue. It also helps stimulate blood vessel growth.   Shockwave therapy has been safely used for decades. Today it is being successfully used to treat conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), Peyronie’s Disease, and sometimes male or female pelvic pain. 

How Does Shockwave for ED Work?

Shockwave therapy is an alternative to traditional treatments, such as oral medications (Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis), vacuum erection devices, injectable medications, and intra-urethral suppositories. 

When treating ED with shockwave therapy, low-intensity shock waves are applied to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum. Using targeted high-energy sound waves, Li-ESWT can speed up tissue repair and improve blood flow, nerve regeneration, and cell growth. This helps improve the strength and quality of erections. 

Is Shockwave Therapy Painful?

While “shockwave” on the surface may sound unpleasant, patients typically tolerate it well. It applies short, frequent, and high-intensity bursts of energy (in the form of ultrasonic sound waves) into soft tissue. Some patients may experience mild discomfort during or after their procedure. 

What Should I Expect for My Appointment?

Prior to your appointment, you may be instructed to shave the affected area. For example, you may be asked to shave the testes and penis prior to treatment for ED. There are no other preparations needed for your procedure. 

Appointments take approximately 30 minutes, and the procedure itself usually takes about 15-20 minutes. However, sessions may be longer depending on the customised treatment for each individual. Patients usually require six (6) treatments, with the effects expected to last for two to three years. The treatment may be repeated, if needed, after that timeframe. 

Treatments are not uncomfortable, and people do not require pain relief or aesthetic; however, patients may have soreness, redness, or some bruising in the treatment area. There are no restrictions following the therapy, but you should take it easy for the rest of the day. 

How Much Does Shockwave Therapy Cost?

Medical aid do not cover Shockwave Therapy, and patients should expect to pay out-of-pocket. At Shockwave Clinic, the cost pr treatment is Rand 2400.00  and 6-8 weekly treatments are normally required as the minimal about of treatments to get the full benefit.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right For You?

Your urologist will discuss your individual situation and help you determine if shockwave therapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.

 

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common sexual disorder affecting more than 1 in 5 men. ED is the inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. While most often associated with older men, ED affects a significant proportion of younger men. When treating ED with shockwave therapy, low-intensity shockwaves are applied to different treatment zones on the penis and on the perineum

“Erectile dysfunction is a common disorder of men that increases with age and may profoundly affect their quality of life. Low-intensity shock wave therapy has been proven to be effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. We use the DUOLITH® SD1 to treat patients with vascular erectile dysfunction with good success”
Milad Hanna, M.B., B.Ch. FRCS – NHS Trust, London.

Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that causes bending of the penis. The problem is caused by scar tissue, called plaques, that forms inside the penis. The disease is generally progressive, most men first notice the presence of the disease when they feel thickened areas (plaques) under the skin of the penis. As the disease progresses further, pain may occur with or without an erection as the penis becomes more curved. The condition can make sexual intercouse difficult or impossible. Shockwave therapy directly targets the pain points and breaks down the plaques within the penis.

“We use the DUOLITH® SD1 to treat several andrological conditions such as erectile dysfunction (ED), chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) and Peyronie’s. The DUOLITH® SD1 is very easy to operate and provides excellent results. Patients experience safel and gentle treatments”
Professor Lars Lund, MD, DMSci, Head of Research Department of Urology Odense University Hospital and University Denmark.

Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome / Prostatitis

Also known aschronic prostatitis, Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS)is characterized by pain in the region of the pelvic floor and / or urination problems without evidence of urinary tract infection. Some patients experience erectile dysfunction. CPPS is found in men of any age, with the peak incidence in men aged 35 – 45 years. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is performed using a perineal approach, treating both the prostate and the pelvic floor.

Hard-Flaccid Syndrome

Hard flaccid syndrome is a condition which causes men’s penises to be permanently semi-erect, even if they are not aroused. Erections are typically difficult to achieve, may not be as rigid and men with the condition may find they require more stimulation or arousal than they did before. The condition can be quite painful for those who have it, particularly during ejaculation, urination and erection.

Shockwave therapy for hard flaccid is a treatment that can help treat erection problems associated with the condition and can also relieve pain and repair some of the damage done to the penis.