A hiatal hernia is a condition that causes the stomach to push upward through an opening in the diaphragm. Exercising can help reduce the symptoms of a hernia; however, choosing the right exercise can be difficult. Rowing and other low-impact aerobic exercises usually are acceptable with hiatal hernias, but check with your physician before you start a new exercise program.
Identification
Hiatal hernias can be small and have no symptoms. Larger hiatal hernias can cause acid reflux-like symptoms, such as chest pain, difficulty swallowing and heartburn. Some risk factors of hiatal hernias in adults include age, obesity and smoking. Children who have a hiatal hernia often are born with the condition. Treatment for hiatal hernias includes medications to help neutralize stomach acid as well as diet and lifestyle changes.
Rowing and Other Exercises
Because obesity can contribute to a hiatal hernia, doctors usually recommend exercise for people with this condition. However, the type of exercise depends on the size and severity of your hernia. Your doctor may recommend low-impact aerobic exercises, such as swimming, walking, cycling or rowing. Avoid any exercises that place strain on your hernia, such as sit-ups. Although some types of exercises, including rowing, can increase your acid reflux symptoms, regular aerobic exercise is important for your health.
Recommendations
To reduce pain while rowing, try not to eat or drink before you exercise. Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can help treat acid reflux. By eating several small meals a day, you can reduce acid reflux. Quitting smoking also can help relieve some symptoms triggered by a hiatal hernia. Other lifestyle changes include abstaining from alcohol, avoiding foods that cause heartburn and not eating right before bedtime.
Precautions
If you have a hiatal hernia, consult your physician before you begin rowing. The reaching motion in rowing could cause pain in some people with hiatal hernias. If at any time you notice an increase in pain while rowing, stop and talk to your doctor. Abdomen pain that comes and goes in waves also may be a sign of a serious complication. If your hiatal hernia is bulging, you may be able to wear a temporary truss to compress your hernia so you can row more comfortably.
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