Prostatic massage became popular and was first adopted the the Royal Institute of Massage at Stockholm in 1894 as an alternative therapeutic and effective method for chronic prostatitis, benign hypertrophy, as well as having the potential to alleviate impotency, premature ejaculation and failing sexual vigour.

Before this new therapeutic practice took place, applications of leeches, cupping and/or heat used to be applied. Therapeutic benefits from prostatic massage treatments were demonstrated to be the stimulation of blood circulation, removal of prostate ducts in effect promoting better drainage, release of accumulated secretion including toxins, strengthening of relaxed muscle fibres, stimulation of greater cellular activity of secreting surfaces and beneficial action on seminal vesiculitis.

Prostatic massage was proclaimed to be most beneficial for simple catarrhal prostatitis, chronic parenchymatous prostatitis, and atonic or atrophic conditions of the prostate and seminal vesicles, bringing about a sense of well-being and renewed vigour in men with this condition.

Source:

JAMA (peer- reviewed Americal journal), volume 79(16) - Oct 14, 1922, Prostatic Massage: A Practical And Theoretical Discussion by George F. Farman, M.D., Santa Barbara, California, USA