Men's Health (Pelvic Floor) Physiotherapy at Exeter Hospital

At Nuffield Health we have several Physiotherapists specialising in the treatment of men’s health issues. Physiotherapy can be useful in diagnosing and assessing a condition. This means that a treatment programme can be prescribed to address pain and dysfunction.

Conditions we can help with:

• Bladder dysfunction
• Bowel dysfunction
• Bladder and bowel problems following prostatectomy (removal of the prostate)
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Pelvic pain
• Urinary incontinence
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction

Who is our men’s health physiotherapist at Nuffield Health Exeter Hospital?

We have men's health physiotherapists who are specially trained to assess and treat men’s health-related problems.

Ali Crocker - Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Specialist and Clinical Services Manager

Ali graduated from the University of Hertfordshire in 2003 with a BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy. Since then she has worked for 20 years in both the NHS and private sector within the UK.

Ali completed a Master’s degree in Continence and Uro-Gynaecology in 2016 and has a wide range of experience treating a variety of Male and Female pelvic conditions with a particular interest in urinary and faecal incontinence, gynaecological prolapse conditions, pelvic pain and managing an overactive bladder.

In her spare time, Ali spends time with her family and enjoys cooking and sea swimming.

Ali's Qualifications and Memberships:

• BSc Hons Physiotherapy
• BA Hons Recreation and Sport Management
• Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy
• Registered with the Health Care Professions Council (state registration)
• Full Member of the Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) special interest group

What happens during a men's pelvic health physiotherapy appointment?

A detailed history will be taken of the problems you are experiencing. Some of the questions may be of a personal nature to gain a full insight into the nature of your problems. You will also be given the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

You may be offered an internal (ano-rectal) pelvic floor examination. This is not compulsory but forms a valuable part of the assessment and enables your physiotherapist to give you individualised treatment and ensure you can activate your pelvic floor muscles correctly. Your physiotherapist will discuss the examination in detail with you during your appointment and a chaperone can be arranged if you would like one.

What does men's pelvic health physiotherapy treatment involve?

Pelvic health (pelvic floor) physiotherapy treatments are based on exercise and advice, which is tailored to you following a detailed assessment. It may also involve some manual therapy, relaxation and breathing techniques. To ensure the best outcome, it is important that you take an active part in your rehabilitation and follow the advice of your specialist physiotherapist.

How many appointments do I need?

This varies for everyone, but most people need to attend a course of between 3-5 sessions for around four months.

Is there anything I need to bring to my initial men's pelvic health physiotherapy appointment?

An up-to-date list of any medications you take is useful, plus details of any past or ongoing health conditions, investigations or treatments, especially if they are related to your current symptoms.

You may also wish to note down any questions you have about the problem to ask your physiotherapist as well as think about the main problems you experience and how much they affect your day-to-day life.

Do I need to do anything at home for my men's pelvic health physiotherapy appointments?

You may be asked to complete a frequency volume chart for your bladder at home before attending your initial appointment or at some point during your treatment.

Do you inform my GP about my pelvic health physiotherapy?

Your GP is not routinely informed about details of your treatment but is informed if there are any concerns about your condition or if you require further investigations or referral to another health professional.

How much is men’s health physiotherapy?

Initial assessment: £85 non-Nuffield gym member / £68 member (60 minutes)
Follow-up appointment: £60 non-Nuffield gym member / £48 member (30 minutes)

We are also approved by most major private medical insurers.

Opening times:

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

How to book a men’s health physiotherapy appointment:

Don't hesitate to get in touch with our physiotherapy reception on 0345 045 4845 to book a self-pay appointment. Please ask for a 'Men's Pelvic Health appointment' when booking your appointment. Alternatively, please contact your private medical insurance directly.