Hard Flaccid Syndrome
Hard flaccid syndrome, also referred to as hard flaccid (HF), is a complex medical condition, normally affecting men in their 20’s and 30’s, causing persistent and distressing symptoms related to the penis and pelvic area.
What is Hard Flaccid?
Hard flaccid syndrome is a condition which causes men’s penises to be permanently semi-erect, even if they are not aroused. Hard Flaccid Syndrome is a condition affecting the penis and is of unknown aetiology among men. However, our observations suggest hard flaccid syndrome to be more prevalent between the ages of 18 and 35. It is characterised by a change in penis size, shape and feel. Penile stiffness or swelling when the penis is in a flaccid state and flaccid size is a common characteristic. The penis is sometimes firmer to the touch, it is engorged and rubber in texture, and is often accompanied by a change in size or shape of erection. There may be a loss in nocturnal erections, and it may require a greater degree of stimulation to achieve an erection.
A constantly semi-rigid penis at the flaccid state and a loss in erectile rigidity. Patients have penile sensory changes, urinary symptoms, erectile dysfunction, pelvic floor muscles contraction and psychological distress.
- Reduced number of morning and nocturnal erections
- Penile and perineal pain
- Penile numbness or coldness
- Chronic pelvic pain syndrome
- Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erect penis
- Need for extreme visual stimulation for an erection
What causes Hard Flaccid Syndrome?
Injury to the penis and stress are likely drivers for this condition. Our own practice at Pro Health has observed many patients who present having engaged in excessive masturbation, exhaustive sex or who have attempted penis enhancement stretching, like jelking. Such situations see the penile muscles in sustained contractile states leading to venous compression in the penis. The blood vessels therefore failing to empty when in a flaccid state with blood remaining in the erectile tissue. Erectile tissue fatigue occurs, as one would see in many other muscle tissues in the body. An almost spasm like behaviour where the regulatory control of erectile function is lost, and the erectile tissue fails to disengage fully. We consider this to be a pesudo priapism where the blood is traped inside the penis. Likewise, in a continued semi stimulated state, the tissue struggles to fully erect because it has lost the normal feedback mechanism.
The exact cause of Hard-flaccid syndrome is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to result from a traumatic event, or combination of physical, psychological, and neurological factors. Potential triggers may include:
- Overuse or improper exercise: Engaging in excessive heavy weight training or incorrect forms of physical exercise may strain the pelvic area and exacerbate symptoms.
- Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction: Inadequate coordination or spasm of the pelvic floor muscles, can lead to sensory changes and impairment of the pelvic floor, affecting venous outflow obstruction of the penis leading to a hard-flaccid state.
- Trauma or injury: Previous pelvic trauma or injury, such as a fall or surgery, may contribute to the onset of symptoms.
- Resultant from tough masturbation, rough sex or penile stretching.
- Chronic stress or anxiety: Emotional factors like chronic stress, anxiety, or psychological trauma can influence the manifestation of Hard-flaccid syndrome.
Treatments for Hard Flaccid Syndrome
Understanding the patient’s drivers and educating our patients about their condition helps with anxiety about the condition. Information concerning the onset of symptoms is essential in removing any harmful behaviours or practices and emotional drivers. Often this is a distressing and difficult time for the patient, and in some cases the cause is elusive and requires careful history taking to unpick the possible triggers.
At Pro Health, our team of experienced physiotherapists specialise in treating Hard-flaccid syndrome with a comprehensive and personalised approach. We recognise that each individual’s needs are unique, and we tailor our treatment plans accordingly.
- Physiotherapy and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Our highly skilled physiotherapists employ targeted exercises and manual techniques to address pelvic floor dysfunction and restore proper muscle contraction and relaxation.
- Breathing techniques, relaxation, gentle stretching and yoga are recommended.
- Education and Lifestyle Modifications: We provide valuable information and guidance to help you better understand your condition, manage symptoms, and make necessary lifestyle modifications to support your recovery.
- Psychological Support: Our compassionate team acknowledges the psychological impact of Hard-flaccid syndrome, we offer referral to recommended counselling services to help you cope with anxiety, stress, and other emotional challenges that may arise.
- Focus Shockwave Therapy: We are proud to offer Focus Shockwave Therapy as a cutting-edge treatment option for Hard-flaccid syndrome. This non-invasive procedure utilises targeted high pressure, low frequency sound waves to stimulate tissue repair, improve blood flow and stimulation regeneration of new blood vessels and nerves, and enhance the overall health of the affected area. Focus Shockwave Therapy has shown promising results in relieving symptoms and restoring sexual function.