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Spinal posture, mobility and stability in individuals with erectile dysfunction symptoms: A case-control study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Spinal biomechanics interact with pelvic floor function. Since erectile dysfunction (ED) involves pelvic floor impairment, assessing the spine may inform ED pathophysiology and management. Objective To compare spinal posture, mobility, and stability between individuals with ED symptoms and healthy controls. Methods This case-control study included 66 participants (ED group, n = 33, age=45.18 ± 9.49 years; control group, n = 33, age=41.58 ± 7.71 years). The severity of ED was questioned with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Spine posture and mobility were assessed with the Spine Mouse device (IDIAG M360 ® , Fehraltorf, Switzerland), and spine stability was assessed with the McGill trunk muscle endurance tests and Sahrmann test. Results The ED group had a mean IIEF-5 score of 11.85 ± 4.40, indicating moderate ED. Sagittal spinal angles of the groups were similar (p > 0.05). Sagittal sacral mobility was less in the ED group (44.24°±20.67°) compared to the control group (52.58°±11.12°) (mean difference: −8.33°, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.99 to −0.01, d = 0.50, p = 0.046). Trunk muscle flexor (mean difference: −8.85 s, 95% CI: −1.60 to −0.57, d = 1.09, p < 0.001), extensor (mean difference: −8.66 s, 95% CI: −1.22 to −0.22, d = 0.73, p = 0.004), left side lateral flexor muscle endurance test scores (mean difference: −5.52 s, 95% CI: −1.15 to −0.15, d = 0.65, p = 0.010) and Sahrmann test score (p = 0.021) were lower in the ED group compared to the control group. Conclusions Sacral mobility and spinal stability are impaired in men with ED, while spinal posture remains unchanged. Incorporating assessments and targeted interventions for spinal mobility and stability into ED management and physiotherapy programs may be beneficial.

Source: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation

DOI: 10.1177/10538127251413132

Authors: Mesut Arslan, Seyda Toprak Celenay, Derya Ozer Kaya

Institutions: Bitlis Eren University, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Izmir Kâtip Çelebi University

Language: English

Topic: Sexual function and dysfunction studies

Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Bitlis Eren Üniversitesi