Painful erections with abnormal curvature are caused by Peyronie’s disease (PD), a condition that occurs when the penis forms fibrous scar tissue that affect the angle or curvature of the penis.
PD can have a large impact on sexual health and quality of life in men. In recent times, penile traction therapy (PTT) using a traction device has gained attention as a non-invasive treatment option for curvature correction and symptom alleviation in Peyronie’s disease patients.
This article explores the concept behind penile traction therapy, its efficacy and how to properly use a penile traction device or penis extender.
Understanding Peyronie’s Disease
The formation of fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea, which is the tough fibrous layer around the erectile tissue of penis, results in Peyronie’s disease. Due to these plaques, during an erection the penis starts bending or curving and this leads to painful sex. The cause of Peyronie’s disease is not well known but it might be due to trauma or injury to the penis leading to abnormal healing and formation of scars.
What Is Penile Traction Therapy?
Penile traction therapy helps get rid of fibrotic scar tissue using principles of traction. As part of this therapy, there are specific exercises that employ mechanical force with transformative potential.
How Penile Traction Therapy Works
Penile traction devices contain a base ring fitting around the penis base, an adjustable elongation device and glans support that hold the head of the penis. It works by continuously and gently stretching the penile tissue thereby promoting cellular multiplication as well as restructuring of tissues. This type of mechanical stretching causes fibrous plaques to break down while new tissues, which are more flexible, grow.
Effectiveness of Penile Traction Therapy
A number of studies have investigated the effectiveness of penile traction therapy in treating Peyronie’s disease. According to a review published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, PTT has shown promising results in reducing penile curvature and improving penile length in men with Peyronie’s disease.1 Another study published in The Journal of Urology found that men who used a penile traction device for several hours daily experienced significant improvement in penile curvature and length compared to those who did not use the device.2
How to Use a Penile Traction Device
Using penile traction therapy appropriately is essential to get optimum results and prevent injury. The following steps can be followed to ensure safe use:
1. Consultation with a Healthcare Professional
Before starting PTT, consult with your health care professional to see if you are an appropriate candidate for this therapy.
2. Choosing the Right Device
There are various devices available at the market, discuss with a urologist to see which is best for you. For instance, some extenders or traction devices like the Andro Penis or Pro Extender use a silicone band and metallic rods to allow for penile traction. Other more advanced devices, like the Penimaster, use vacuum suction, which can be much more comfortable and help mitigate pain.
3. Fitting the Device
- First place the base ring around the base of your flaccid penis.
- Then adjust the elongation mechanism to apply gentle tension. The device should feel snug but not painful.
- Secure the head of the penis in the glans support.
4. Duration and Frequency
Start with shorter sessions, gradually increasing the duration as you become accustomed to the device. Aim for 6-8 hours daily, divided into shorter sessions if necessary.
Follow your healthcare professional’s guidance for the duration of use.
5. Assessment of Progress
Regularly monitor your progress and any changes in penile curvature and length.
Keep records of any discomfort or adverse effects and report them to your healthcare provider.
6. Consistency and Patience
If one sentence is required to describe the efficient use of penile traction therapy, that would be: be patient and be consistent. Consistency is key to achieving results with PTT. Use the device daily and be patient, as noticeable improvements may take several weeks or months.
Benefits & Side Effects of Traction Therapy
Benefits
- Reduced Penile Curvature:
Research has demonstrated that PTT can considerably reduce penile curvature in men having Peyronie’s disease.1,2
- Enhanced Penis Length:
Some males may witness an improvement in their penis length when they regularly use traction devices.2
- Non-Invasive:
It is a non-invasive treatment alternative without any surgery related hazards.
Side effects
- Soreness:
Some men might experience discomfort or little pain while using a penile stretcher particularly at the beginning stages of adjustment.
- Irritation to the Skin:
Extended and inappropriate use of this instrument can cause skin irritation or redness.
- Injury:
Misuse of this apparatus as well as excessive tension could lead to injury. Owing to this, it is crucial for users to comply with usage directions and consult health experts.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Laurence Levine, a prominent urologist specializing in Peyronie’s disease, supports the use of penile traction therapy. In a review published in the Journal of Urology, Dr. Levine highlights the potential benefits of PTT in reducing penile curvature and improving patient outcomes.3
Dr. John Mulhall, another leading expert in male sexual health, also emphasizes the importance of penile traction therapy in managing Peyronie’s disease. He promotes a multimodal approach that includes PTT, medications, and lifestyle modifications to achieve the best results for patients.4
Conclusion
Penile traction therapy offers a promising non-invasive treatment option for men with Peyronie’s disease. By applying consistent stretching force, PTT can reduce penile curvature and potentially improve penile length, enhancing the quality of life for affected men. It is essential to use the device properly and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, especially for conditions such as Peyronie’s disease. Individual results may vary, and it is important to use penile traction devices as directed to avoid injury.
References
1. Levine LA, Newell M, Taylor FL. Penile traction therapy for treatment of Peyronie’s disease: a single-center pilot study. J Sex Med. 2008 Jun;5(6):1468-73. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00814.x. Epub 2008 Mar 26. PMID: 18373527.
2. Ziegelmann M, Savage J, Toussi A, Alom M, Yang D, Kohler T, et al. Outcomes of a Novel Penile Traction Device in Men with Peyronie’s Disease: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Controlled Trial. Journal of Urology [Internet]. 2019 Sep 1 [cited 2024 Aug 3];202(3):599–610. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000000245
3. Levine LA, Larsen SM. Surgery for Peyronie’s disease. Asian J Androl. 2013 Jan;15(1):27-34. doi: 10.1038/aja.2012.92. Epub 2012 Nov 26. PMID: 23178395; PMCID: PMC3739133.
4. Mulhall, J. P. (2008). Saving Your Sex Life: A Guide for Men with Prostate Cancer. Hilton Publishing.
