Peyronie’s disease (PD) develops when fibrous scar tissue (plaques) forms within the penile shaft, causing penile curvature, narrowing, or shortening. Typically affecting men over age 40, it often involves discomfort during erection in the early (“acute”) phase and may lead to erectile dysfunction and psychological impact like anxiety or depression.
PD evolves through:
- Acute phase – pain, inflammation, plaque formation (lasting 5–18 months)
- Chronic phase – stabilization of curvature, less pain, possible erectile dysfunction
Role of Exercises in PD Management
While there’s no cure solely through exercises, certain traction or manual modeling techniques—when performed under professional guidance—can help reduce curvature, preserve length, and support treatments like medication or injections.
Penile Traction Therapy (PTT)
- Uses a traction device to apply gentle stretch to the penis daily.
- Requires consistent sessions often lasting 30 minutes to several hours per day, over weeks to months.
- Studies show measurable improvements in curvature and length: average curvature reduction ~28% and length gain ~10–15% within 3–6 months, especially when combined with injections like collagenase (Xiaflex).
Manual Modeling / Hand Exercises
- Ideal when devices are unavailable or cost is a concern.
- Consists of two key exercises:
1. Gentle Stretching (non‑erect penis):
- Grasp the tip and base of flaccid penis.
- Gently pull outward, holding the stretch for ~30 seconds.
- Repeat 3 times daily.
2. Gentle Straightening (only during a spontaneous erect penis):
- If an uninitiated erection occurs (e.g. in morning).
- Gently bend opposite to the curve, hold 30s, up to once daily.
- Should not cause pain or discomfort.
Manual modeling often achieves 10–20% improvement in curvature alone, and better when combined with medical treatments.
Exercises to Avoid: Jelqing & Unsupervised Massage
- Practices like jelqing (forceful milking) are controversial and considered risky.
- Potential harms include bruising, scarring, worsening curvature, or erectile dysfunction.
- Massage without medical supervision may also worsen symptoms.
Step-by-Step Exercise Protocol
| Exercise Type | When to Perform | How Often | Technique Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stretch (Flaccid) | Any time non‑erect | 3× daily | Pull gently outward for 30 seconds, relax, repeat |
| Straighten (Erect) | When unincipated erect | Once daily | Bend opposite curve gently, hold 30 seconds |
| Traction Device (PTT) | As advised by provider | 30 min–several hrs/day | Wear device to stretch or rotate to correct curve |
Before You Start: Safety & Clinical Tips
- Always consult a urologist or experienced clinician before beginning any exercise.
- A professional can assess your PD phase (acute vs chronic), curvature severity, and decide whether traction device, manual modeling, or injection is appropriate.
- Gentle stretching and straightening should be pain-free and gradual.
- If symptomatic or worsening occurs, stop exercising and seek medical advice.
Who Benefits Most?
- Acute phase patients may slow progression and reduce discomfort.
- Chronic phase individuals can still achieve modest curvature reduction and maintain penile length.
- Users of treatments like Xiaflex injections often see best outcomes when combining with modeling or traction exercises.
