Hernias are abnormal sacs or bulges in the lining of your abdomen that occur when you have weaknesses or holes in your abdominal wall. You can develop these bulges in various locations, including your stomach, belly button, groin and upper thigh, according to PubMed Health. Recovery and rehabilitation measures after hernia surgery vary according to several factors.
Hernia Surgery Basics
Hernia surgery is most commonly performed in cases where a hernia is causing pain or growing larger. Basic surgical goals include strengthening your abdominal wall and using some form of patch to close any existing holes. In some cases, your surgeon will repair your hernia with a traditional open surgery, which requires a relatively large incision in your abdomen. In other cases, your surgeon may be able to perform a laparoscopic procedure, which requires much smaller incisions and allows your surgeon to view the injury site with the help of a tiny camera mounted on a flexible tube.
The Need for Rehabilitation
If you undergo a laparoscopic hernia repair, you may not need any special rehabilitation or have any limitations on your post-surgery activity, notes Baylor College of Medicine. In these circumstances, you can return to your daily routine as you see fit. If you undergo a traditional surgical procedure, you will need to avoid any form of abdominal strain or heavy lifting for roughly six to eight weeks. Common rehabilitative steps immediately following an open surgery include exercises such as deep breathing or progressive relaxation to reduce your pain levels, improve your recovery time and help you avoid any lung-related surgical complications.
Additional Factors
In some cases, your surgeon or physical therapist may recommend you perform exercises -- pillow squeezes, leg slides or shoulder bridges -- to improve your posture and body mechanics for as long as six months following your hernia repair. Your doctor and therapist may also ask you to lose weight in order to reduce your chances for another hernia. Athletes who experience a hernia may need to perform an extensive exercise routine in order to return to their sport or activity. Types of activities used in an athlete's recovery may include abdominal strengthening exercises, flexibility exercises, aerobics, exercises to strengthen the groin and hips, and exercises tailored to their specific sport.
Considerations
Additional steps that can help you prevent a hernia or hernia recurrence include getting regular exercise, eating enough dietary fiber to reduce your risks for constipation, staying properly hydrated and avoiding any delays in going to the bathroom. Potential complications that can delay your recovery following hernia surgery include infection, nerve damage, abnormal retention of urine, excessive bleeding and allergic reactions to your anesthesia. Consult your doctor and a physical therapist for more information on hernia surgery recovery and rehabilitation.
References
- PubMed Health: Hernia; November 5, 2010
- Baylor College of Medicine: Hernia Repair Abdominal
- MD Guidelines: Hernia,Incisional
- MD Guidelines: Hernia, Umbilical
- Salisbury University Sports Medicine Symposium: Rehabilitation from Double Sports Hernia Surgery; Brian Bradshaw, M.S., ATC; Towson University; January 16, 2010
- The Support Company: The Hernia Bible (Pages 8-11); Craig Sams; 2006
