Erections weaker since ACL injury, back pain, and muscle loss
24M, had an ACL tear and meniscus injury for about 5 months before surgery. During that time I developed chronic lower back pain/stiffness, especially in the morning, along with pelvic tightness and difficulty expanding my lower belly while standing.
Around the same time my erection quality decreased. I can still get erections and my libido is coming back, but erections feel less full/rigid than before and sometimes seem smaller. erection quality is inconsistent and I sometimes finish faster than before.
A few details:
- Back pain started before the erection issues.
- I lost noticeable lower-body muscle, especially in the injured leg.
- I had ACL + meniscus surgery recently (currently about 1 week post-op).
- I feel like my posture, gait, and pelvic position changed after the injury.
- I have some upper back tightness now too.
- I can get erections, just not as strong as before.
- Libido is present and improving.
Has anyone had erection issues that seemed related to chronic back pain, pelvic tension, gait changes, or lower-body deconditioning after an injury? Did things improve as you regained strength and normal movement patterns?
I’m especially interested in experiences from people who worked with a physio, improved glute/hip strength, corrected compensation patterns, or addressed pelvic floor tension.
Posted Jun 12, 2026, 8:09 PM UTC