What is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s Disease (PD) is a condition where fibrous plaque forms within the tissues of the penis, causing curvature, indentation or shortening during an erection. Men commonly notice a developing bend, a firm lump, discomfort with erections or changes in sexual confidence.

PD is a benign condition but can have significant physical and emotional impacts. Many men experience worry, embarrassment or avoidance of intimacy, especially when curvature alters comfort or sexual function.

How Common is PD?

Peyronie’s Disease is more common than many men realise, but is often underreported due to stigma or hesitation discussing penile symptoms.

Key facts include:

  • PD occurs in around 10–15% of men between 40 and 70 years of age, though it can occur earlier or later in life.
  • You are more likely to develop PD if a biological family member (father, brother) also has it, indicating a genetic tendency.
  • Certain connective tissue disorders significantly increase risk, including:
    • Dupuytren’s contracture
    • Plantar fasciitis
    • Scleroderma
  • Men with diabetes-related erectile dysfunction are four to five times more likely to develop PD than men without diabetes.
  • Surgical treatments for prostate cancer, especially prostatectomy, increase susceptibility due to changes in penile tissue structure, vascular supply and nerve function.
  • Men with autoimmune conditions, including lupus, are more likely to develop Peyronie’s Disease.

These associations reflect broader health factors affecting collagen behaviour, vascular function and penile tissue resilience.

Symptoms of Peyronie’s Disease

Common symptoms include:

  • Curvature or bending during erections
  • A firm lump or localised thickening along the shaft
  • Pain with erections, particularly in early stages
  • Shortening or reduction in penile length
  • Indentation or “hourglass” deformity
  • Difficulty achieving penetration or maintaining rigidity
  • Anxiety, reduced sexual confidence or avoidance of intimacy

PD typically has two phases: an early active phase where pain and curvature may change, followed by a stable phase where deformity becomes more predictable.

How Peyronie’s Disease is Assessed

Assessment is centred on understanding curvature pattern, plaque behaviour and contributing musculoskeletal or pelvic factors. A men’s health assessment may include:

  • History of symptom onset and progression
  • Palpation of superficial plaque and surrounding tissues
  • Evaluation of penile and perineal mobility
  • Screening for pelvic floor tension or guarding
  • Review of erectile function and sexual comfort
  • Discussion of connective tissue or metabolic health
  • Consideration of post-surgical or post-cancer treatment changes

Medical assessment by a GP or urologist may be recommended to confirm diagnosis and explore medical or surgical options.

Treatment & Recovery

The Athlete’s Guild offers conservative, non-invasive treatment options to support comfort, tissue mobility and functional recovery. These approaches complement specialist medical advice and are most effective during the stable phase or later part of the active phase.

Manual Therapy & Scar Mobilisation

Manual therapy focuses on reducing tension and improving the quality of surrounding soft tissues. Techniques may include:

  • Myofascial release through the lower abdomen, pelvis and groin
  • Soft tissue mobilisation to improve fascial glide
  • Scar therapy for surgical or radiation-related changes
  • Gentle mobilisation to support comfort and functional ease

These approaches help improve mobility and reduce discomfort but are not intended to directly alter plaque.

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

LLLT (904 nm) is used to reduce fibrotic stiffness and improve comfort. LLLT benefits may include:

  • Softening and reducing the thickness of fibrotic tissue
  • Reduced sensitivity or irritation around plaque-affected areas
  • Enhanced tissue elasticity and oxygenation
  • Support for nerve recovery following surgery or trauma
  • Reduced formation of new fibrotic tissue over time

LLLT is gentle and typically combined with manual therapy and scar mobilisation for optimal effect.

Penile Traction Therapy (PTT)

PTT is the most supported non-invasive approach for reducing curvature and preserving length. PTT may assist by:

  • Reducing curvature (commonly 15–30° in clinical trials)
  • Increasing penile length (typically 1–2 cm with consistent use)
  • Softening or improving the flexibility of plaque-affected tissue

PTT works best when used during the active phase, but remains effective in the stable phase, particularly when combined with other conservative therapies.

Vacuum Erection Device (VED) Therapy

VED therapy uses cyclical negative pressure to draw blood into the penis, supporting tissue health, oxygenation and mobility. It is frequently used in combination with traction therapy, especially in post-prostatectomy rehabilitation and PD. VED therapy may assist by:

  • Improving penile oxygenation
  • Reducing contracture forces on the tunica albuginea
  • Maintaining or increasing penile length
  • Supporting erectile function and sexual confidence

Curvature changes with VED therapy are typically modest, but some men experience gradual improvement over several months of consistent use.

When to Seek Help

Book an assessment if you notice:

  • A new or increasing bend in your erection
  • A firm lump or band along the shaft
  • Pain with erections or sexual activity
  • Difficulty maintaining erections
  • Emotional distress or reduced confidence
  • Symptoms following prostate cancer treatment or pelvic surgery

Early support can reduce anxiety, improve tissue comfort and guide safe management.

Get Support

The Athlete’s Guild provides respectful, confidential and evidence-informed care for Peyronie’s Disease, offering:

  • Manual therapy and scar mobilisation
  • Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
  • PTT and VED therapy prescription
  • Education to support sexual comfort and confidence
  • Support for men after prostate or pelvic cancer treatment

Book with Trent Renshaw at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy for personalised support aimed at restoring comfort, mobility and confidence.

Book Now at Coffs Coast Sports Physiotherapy

Key Takeaways

  • PD affects 10–15% of men aged 40–70.
  • Genetic factors and connective tissue disorders increase risk.
  • Diabetes-related ED and prostate cancer treatments significantly elevate risk.
  • Manual therapy, LLLT, ultrasound and ESWT support functional recovery.
  • Most men benefit from early assessment and comprehensive conservative care.