A hernia occurs when some part of the abdomen such as the intestines bulges out through a weakness or hole in the abdominal wall, according to the Midwest Hernia Institute. Hernias can occur in different places throughout the abdomen. The inguinal or groin hernia is the most common site for hernias, second to umbilical hernias found in infants and children.
Causes
All hernias are caused by too much pressure near the muscle weakness or opening. The weak spot can occur at birth or later in life. Inguinal hernias often occur when an athlete focuses on strengthening the lower body more than the trunk, which can result in a tear in the oblique muscles, according to the Sports Hernia website.
Hernia Surgery
There are two types of hernia surgeries; herniorrhapy and laparoscopy. According to the MayoClinic.com, in herniorrhapy the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and pushes the intestine back into your abdomen, and then repairs the weakened muscle. In laparoscopy the surgeon uses a fiberoptic tube with a camera and inserts it into your abdomen through a small incision, and inserts instruments into other incisions. The surgeon then performs the surgery using the camera as a guide. While laparoscopy offers less discomfort and quicker recovery, there is also a greater risk of complications than there is in herniorrhaphy.
Post-Operation
The first three to four weeks after your surgery should be spent recovering with little or no exercise. According to Sports Hernia website, the first week following surgery should consist of rest and no lifting. After you have rested for one week you may being walking and doing some gentle stretching. Weeks four through six after your surgery should be spent slowly regaining your strength and easing into such exercises as abdominal crunches.
Abdominal Exercises
Begin your abdominal exercises gradually by doing basic crunches with your knees bent. Only slightly raise up the first few times you perform the exercise. If you can successfully raise your head and upper shoulders off the floor without pain, then try to raise up slightly higher the next time. Once you can perform the crunch without pain, gradually move onto other abdominal exercises. After you have completely recovered from your surgery be sure to incorporate lower and oblique abdominal exercises into your workout routine to prevent your hernia from returning.
Considerations
During the first six weeks, limit exercise intensity; if the exercise is painful, stop. The Sports Hernia Rehabilitation Program states that there will be a hard swelling at the operative site for about nine weeks and it is a part of the natural healing process. It is important not to rush into any activity too soon and to listen to your body. If you are unsure whether an activity or exercise is safe to perform after surgery consult your physician or physical therapist.
