Masturbation is a normal part of sexuality. However, it’s possible to overdo it. For men, excessive masturbation by hand might backfire.
This is known as “death grip syndrome.” It’s not a clinical term, but it describes the condition well. Death grip syndrome happens after frequently using the hand to masturbate. This kills the nerves, making it difficult to feel pleasure.
Typically, the nerves in the penis are super sensitive.1 But without healthy nerves, you won’t be able to notice different sensations.2 This can lead to problems like loss of feeling and delayed ejaculation.3
The main cause is frequent masturbation, but there are other possible reasons. Check out this guide to learn the causes, symptoms, and treatment for death grip syndrome.
Causes
1. Dryness
Lubrication is a crucial part of sex. It’s the same deal with masturbation!
A good lube prevents dryness, chafing, and raw friction. The slippery surface also does a better job at emulating real sex. You’ll be less likely to keep going for a long time, just to feel some pleasure.
A water-based lubricant is the best choice.4 You can also use lotion, but avoid fragrances and dyes that might irritate the skin.
2. Tightness
A tight grip is needed to feel the pleasure, but if it’s too snug, the nerves can take a hit. Loosen up your hold and don’t squeeze to the point of pain. Again, a good lube will help avoid this.
3. Speed
Like tightness, a high speed of masturbation isn’t healthy. Sure, going fast will feel better, but it can do more harm than good. Use a lube to mimic the sensation – not speed – of real sex.
Symptoms
1. Erection Problems
A common symptom of death grip syndrome is erection difficulties. After all, erectile function greatly depends on healthy nerves.
If the nerves are damaged, they can’t receive signals from the brain. So, the penile muscles can’t relax, and blood won’t fill it up.5
2. Delayed Ejaculation
When the nerves have problems, it’ll be hard to orgasm. It can take as much as 30 to 45 minutes or more.6 In some cases, you might not be able to orgasm at all. This is a major symptom of death grip syndrome.
3. Low Pleasure
Nerves are needed to feel pleasure. But if they’re damaged, sex may not feel as good. This can happen even if you do achieve an erection.
If having sex feels uneventful, relationships might suffer.
Treatment
1. Rest
Giving your body a break is the best thing you can do. Remember, death grip syndrome is caused by excessive masturbation. Frequency is everything.
Don’t masturbate or have sex for about a week. If you find this tricky, stay distracted with hobbies. It’ll let your penis rest and recover.
2. Loosen It Up
A tight hold is a recipe for nerve damage. In the future, don’t grasp too hard. Alternate between different types of grips.
3. Go Slow
Masturbating too fast will stress out the nerves. It also won’t help if it’s raw and painful. Go back and forth between different speeds, and take your time.
Masturbation is perfectly normal. In fact, roughly 95 to 99 percent of men masturbate.7 To do it safely and properly, follow this guide to avoid death grip syndrome. This condition doesn’t have to last forever!
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