Is It Really Prostatitis? The Hidden Role of Pelvic Floor Muscles in Men’s Pelvic Pain

As a physical therapist and CEO of PT of the City in NYC, I’ve seen countless men frustrated by persistent pelvic pain. Many are told they have “chronic prostatitis,” yet antibiotics and medications often don’t solve the problem.

The truth? Not every case of pelvic pain, urinary frequency, or discomfort is actually caused by the prostate. For many men, the real culprit is pelvic floor dysfunction.

❌ Why Prostatitis Is So Often Misdiagnosed

Urologists may label symptoms as prostatitis when tests for infection or structural problems are negative.
Research reveals that up to 90% of men diagnosed with chronic prostatitis actually have chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) — a condition linked to pelvic floor dysfunction rather than infection (NIH, JAMA 2016).
Men may undergo unnecessary antibiotics or procedures without lasting relief.

💪 Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Can Mimic Prostate Problems

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis that support the bladder, bowel, and sexual organs. When these muscles are tight, weak, or uncoordinated, they can cause:

Burning or pressure in the pelvic region
Urinary urgency or difficulty emptying the bladder
Pain while sitting, exercising, or during intimacy

These symptoms closely resemble prostatitis—but they often originate from pelvic muscle tension and poor coordination.

✅ Proven Pelvic Floor Therapy for Chronic Pelvic Pain

The good news: pelvic floor dysfunction can be treated successfully. Evidence-based options include:

Pelvic floor physical therapy for men

Specialized therapy significantly reduces CPPS and chronic pelvic pain symptoms (Urology, 2019).

Behavioral strategies

Bladder training, relaxation exercises, and posture awareness reduce muscle strain.

Education & awareness

Understanding the pelvic floor empowers men to retrain their bodies and prevent flare-ups.

🏥 PT of the City: Specialized Pelvic Pain Treatment for Men in NYC

We prioritize male pelvic health physical therapy because too many men struggle silently.

They’re told, “It’s just prostatitis,” when the true issue is muscular.
They feel stuck between endless antibiotics or being told to “just live with it.”
Most don’t realize that pelvic floor therapy can provide long-term relief.

Whether you’re in New York City or beyond, men should know: pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for women—it can be life-changing for men too.

🔑 Key Takeaway: Consider Pelvic Floor Therapy for Lasting Relief

If you’ve been treated for prostatitis but still experience pain, urinary symptoms, or pelvic discomfort, it’s time to consider your pelvic floor.

At PT of the City, we offer chronic prostatitis pelvic pain treatment in NYC that goes beyond the prostate to target the root cause. Sometimes, the simplest solution—retraining and relaxing muscles—brings the greatest relief.

You don’t have to live with pelvic pain. Evidence-based solutions exist, and we’re here to help.

🚀 Take the First Step Toward Pelvic Pain Relief

Book a consultation with our specialists to evaluate your pelvic floor and start effective therapy tailored for men.

👉 Book a Pelvic Floor Therapy Evaluation

Dr. Mahmoud Shalaby