Hernia repairs are among the most common procedures in the world, and account for nearly 20 percent of all surgeries worldwide. Hernias occur due to a weakness in the abdominal wall that can be congenital or acquired. In either case, the minimally invasive surgery will repair the hernia, but it won't change the underlying deficiency in the strength of the abdominal wall. Post-hernia operation exercises may assist in avoiding further recurrence of the hernia.
When to Begin
While it is safe to begin some activities two to three weeks after surgery, Dr. Adrian March, PhD and trustee of the Colostomy Association of the United Kingdom, believes that it is best to wait one month before beginning a workout routine that is designed to strengthen the affected area. He also advises a second follow-up visit with your surgeon before any strenuous activity begins. Therefore, the first month after surgery should be a period of rest and very light activity.
Dont's
Exercise is a necessary and vital agent in hernia surgery rehabilitation, but rushing the procedure, or taking on too much, too soon can result in a setback. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine, and keep in mind that the repaired area is vulnerable, even if you've had mesh inserted to help strengthen the wound. While it is possible to make the area stronger than it ever has been before, any rehabilitation exercise should involve caution. Listen to your body and if you feel pain, realize that this is your signal to stop.
Do's
An abbreviated form of the sit up is the best way to start a post-hernia operation rehabilitation routine. According to Dr. March, abdominal curls on a firm flat surface, are the best choice. Lie on your back with arms at your side, knees bent, and feet close to the extended fingertips at your side.
Initially, you should do nothing more than relieve the pressure of your shoulder blades on the floor by gently raising them off the floor. Place your hand on the wound to monitor the status of tissue around the repaired area. If no pain is felt, continue for a few reps. Gradually increase as the days go by, provided there is no unexpected pain.
Be careful to exhale with each upward repetition, and only work on alternate days in order to let the muscles rest.
Follow Through
If things go smoothly, work up to three sets of fifteen, on alternating days. When this has been achieved, you can start lifting the shoulder blades 3 or 4 inches off the ground and holding for a two count. If you find that three sets of fifteen can be performed easily, than you can graduate to raising your shoulder blades off the ground until your torso makes a 45 degree angle with the flat surface.
All the while, keep monitoring the status of your injury, and be prepared to slow your progress if the wound is exceptionally sore or if you feel any sharp or strange pain.
When you have done three sets of fifteen like this, you should be ready to return to your original level of physical activity.
Avoiding Recurrence
Once you have returned to a normal level of activity, remember that the reason you had a hernia in the first place was that you had a weakness in the abdominal wall. Hernia recurrences are very common, therefore it would be wise to continue developing and maintaining the strength of this area.
Even if you are in perfect health, avoid activities that involve heavy lifting. If you have to perform heavy lifts, concentrate on keeping perfect posture, lift with your legs and always wear a support belt.
