Does a back problem affect a man's erection?

Q: I got a MRI done 3 months back and it said that I have disc herniation on the L1-S5 disc. Will this affect my erection or will I have any kind of problem while having sex? Can I masturbate?

A:You are right. Spinal cord problems are among the most common and important causes of erectile dysfunction. Having said that, however, Id like to say that you need to treat that problem first. Rectification of the spinal problem will usually pre-empt/reverse any erectile dysfunction caused.