Hard Flaccid Syndrome
Hard Flaccid Syndrome (also known as HF Syndrome) is a painful condition in which the penis is permanently semi-erect with loss of erectile rigidity. Symptoms of HF Syndrome are wide-ranging but include numbness, pain during urination, pelvic pain and erectile disfunction. HF Syndrome primarily affects men in their 20s and 30s but can affect men of any age.
About Hard Flaccid Syndrome
What is Hard Flaccid Syndrome?
Classed as a Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPPS), Hard Flaccid Syndrome is a relatively rare disorder which can affect men of any age – although the majority of sufferers are between the ages of 20 and 30. HF Syndrome is characterised by the semi-rigidity of the penis and loss of erectile rigidity.
Symptoms of Hard Flaccid Syndrome include pain during ejaculation and/or urination, ED, pelvic muscle contraction and sensory changes such as a feeling of coldness or numbness. Pain experienced as a result of Hard Flaccid Syndrome is not necessarily concentrated upon the penis but can be experienced anywhere between the navel and hips and the symptoms can feel worse when standing. Psychological distress is also is associated with HF Syndrome which can contribute to the physical effects of HF Syndrome in sufferers.
What Causes Hard Flaccid Syndrome?
Medical research into Hard Flaccid Syndrome is in its infancy but it is thought that in common with other Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndromes, HF Syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors. The most common of these is believed to be a traumatic injury to the base of the penis which causes muscular contraction and prevents the normal blood flow necessary to expand and contract the penis. Stress, imbalance of the nervous system and anxiety/depression can all contribute to exacerbate the condition.
How Can Focused Shockwave Therapy Treat Hard Flaccid Syndrome?
Focused Shockwave Therapy is a safe and non-invasive therapy used to treat the underlying causes and symptoms of Hard Flaccid Syndrome by repairing the damaged nerves and blood vessels. During the treatment, the affected areas are targeted with a hand-held device which emits high-density, low-intensity, energy waves. The precisely directed waves relax the constricted muscles and repair damage by encouraging the formation of new blood vessels and improving nerve function.
Is Focused Shockwave Therapy Effective in Treating Hard Flaccid Syndrome?
While research into the causes of Hard Flaccid Syndrome is fairly recent, it has shown that Focused Shockwave Therapy can be effective in treating both the causes and symptoms of the Hard Flaccid Syndrome by stimulating the repair and regeneration of muscle and nerves and increasing blood flow to the affected area.
The How Osteopathic Clinic is experienced in the use of Focused Shockwave Therapy as a treatment for Hard Flaccid Syndrome. As with all Men’s Health Conditions, an initial diagnosis from a registered medical practitioner will be required before treatment commences. Should you require a referral then this can be arranged.
To book your appointment for Focused Shockwave Therapy please contact osteopath Helen How by email or telephone 0131 551 1044.
*Shockwave Therapy in the Treatment of Hard Flaccid Syndrome (July 2019)
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