Post-Fall Concerns: Can a Spine Injury Affect Erectile Function?

Falling and landing on the buttocks can lead to unusual erections afterward?

Hello, doctor.
A few days ago, I fell and landed on my buttocks, which caused pain in my lower back and lumbar spine for one night.
After several days, I noticed that I no longer have morning erections, and the firmness of my erections has decreased.
I cannot achieve an erection through thoughts or watching videos, but I can still do so manually.
Previously, I could achieve an erection through fantasies or videos, but now I cannot since the fall.
Before, I could achieve an erection before going to bed, but now I cannot.
Even when I do manage to get an erection, the firmness feels less than before.
Additionally, I no longer have the urge to urinate in the morning.
I visited an orthopedic doctor who scolded me, then a neurologist who suggested I get an MRI of my spine, and finally a urologist who said they couldn't provide a diagnosis.
The orthopedic doctor prescribed muscle relaxants, saying I should feel better in a week or two.
However, I am still very concerned that there might be an injury to the spinal nerves affecting my erectile function.
Is this a possibility? I am very grateful for the help from all the doctors and appreciate your response!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/11

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

There should be no impact on sexual function if there are no fractures or nerve damage.

Reply Date: 2016/01/11

More Info

In response to your question regarding the potential impact of a spine injury on erectile function, it is essential to understand the anatomy and physiology involved in the erectile process, as well as the implications of spinal injuries.

Erectile function is primarily controlled by the nervous system, specifically the parasympathetic nervous system, which originates from the sacral region of the spinal cord (S2-S4). This area is crucial for the reflexive and psychogenic pathways that lead to an erection. When a person experiences a spinal injury, particularly in the lumbar or sacral regions, it can disrupt the neural pathways that facilitate the erectile response.

Given your recent fall and subsequent symptoms, it is possible that the injury could have affected the nerves responsible for erectile function. The absence of morning erections (often referred to as "morning wood") and the changes in erectile hardness you described may indicate a disruption in these neural pathways. Additionally, the fact that you can still achieve an erection through manual stimulation suggests that the physical mechanisms are intact, but the neurological signals may be impaired.

It is also worth noting that psychological factors can play a significant role in erectile function. Stress, anxiety, and worry about your health can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED). The concern about your spine injury and its potential long-term effects may exacerbate these psychological factors, further complicating the situation.

Regarding your medical evaluations, it is prudent to follow up with the recommended imaging studies, such as an MRI of the spine. This will help determine if there is any structural damage that could be affecting the nerves involved in erectile function. If there is evidence of nerve compression or injury, further interventions may be necessary.

In the meantime, it is essential to manage your anxiety and stress levels. Engaging in relaxation techniques, discussing your concerns with a mental health professional, or seeking support from loved ones can be beneficial. Additionally, if the muscle relaxants prescribed by your orthopedic doctor help alleviate any pain or discomfort, this may also improve your overall sense of well-being and potentially your erectile function.

If the MRI results are normal and there is no significant structural damage, it may be worthwhile to consult a urologist specializing in sexual health. They can provide further evaluation and discuss potential treatment options, which may include counseling, medication, or other therapies aimed at restoring erectile function.

In summary, while a spine injury can potentially affect erectile function due to disruption of the neural pathways, it is essential to conduct thorough evaluations to rule out any significant damage. Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of your condition will be crucial in managing your symptoms and restoring your confidence in your sexual health.

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