Functional recovery exercises for the pelvic floor muscles after radical prostate cancer surgery The purpose of functional recovery exercises for the pelvic floor muscles (Kegel maneuvers) is to strengthen the tone of the pelvic floor muscles, and the exercises help in the recovery of urinary incontinence. The maneuver is accomplished by contracting the controlled urethral sphincter, as if one were trying to hold urine or inhibit a bowel movement, and works mainly the muscles behind the scrotum and in front of the rectum. Patients should begin practicing this maneuver prior to surgery. Identify the pelvic floor muscles Contraction of the anus (similar to the process of final interruption of urination or inhibition of anal discharge). Imagine how you would feel if you were to interrupt urination. Avoid contracting the muscles of the abdomen, buttocks or legs. Feel your abdomen with your hands during the exercise. If you feel tension in your abdominal muscles, you are not moving correctly. How to perform the exercise Contract the anus firmly while standing, sitting and lying down and hold for 2-3 seconds. Then relax for 2-3 seconds. Do not hold your breath, but breathe normally during the exercise. Practice 10 sets at a time, at least 3 times a day. For the 2nd week after catheter removal, increase the duration of the anal contraction by 4 seconds. For the 3rd week and beyond after catheter removal, increase the duration of the retraction to 5-10 seconds. You will feel an improvement in your ability to control the flow of urine. It is usually better to perform the exercises in the morning. As the pelvic floor muscles strengthen, gradually increase the duration of the retraction to 10 seconds. When to practice the pelvic floor exercises Any time and place can be used to practice this movement. Practice in different positions (standing, sitting, or lying), find the easiest position, and train it consistently. The key to pelvic floor exercises is the right approach and consistency.