Some people experience a great deal of pain after hernia surgery, but most find the surgery and recovery quite easy. The American College of Surgeons advises to avoid climbing stairs and driving for the first few days, and to be very careful when bathing to avoid wetting the surgical site. Sexual activity and light exercise can probably be resumed within a week or two, but follow your doctor's recommendations.
Step 1
Return to work about a week after hernia surgery if you work sitting down. Take longer if your job involves moving frequently. The American College of Surgeons says you will be restricted to lifting no more than 10 to 20 lbs., so make sure your boss---and your kids---understand that.
Step 2
Wear comfortable shoes with flat, cushioned soles. Walking will not usually be a problem after hernia surgery, but you must be as comfortable as possible. You must avoid high-impact movements such as walking quickly or running because these activities will probably cause pain. Do not wear dress shoes or high heels for several weeks.
Step 3
Work for only a few hours the first two or three days. You will be uncomfortable in many of the positions you were used to before the surgery. Get up and move around frequently, and take it easy at work. Use pillows behind your back or underneath you to provide additional support.
Step 4
Avoid coughing and sneezing. These will cause you intense pain by putting stress on the wound and the healing muscles.
Step 5
Hold the surgical site with your hand for support any time you change positions---from sitting to standing, or while walking. If the discomfort from the surgical site is very bothersome, wear a hernia abdominal support. These elastic bands surround your entire waist, and may make you more comfortable because they support both the muscles of your abdomen and your internal organs. If your hernia surgery took place outside of the abdomen in the groin area, close-fitting underwear may provide some support to the area.
Tips and Warnings
- Constipation is common after surgery and when you take prescription pain medication. Avoid constipation because you will strain the surgical site. Eat whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables, or take over-the-counter stool softeners until your body returns to normal.
- Ask your doctor before taking over-the-counter cough remedies or allergy pills, because they may interact with your prescription pain medications. Numbness after hernia surgery is common and may persist for six weeks to six months. Contact your doctor if the numbness worsens or persists.
Things You'll Need
- Comfortable shoes
- Pillows
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication
- Elastic abdominal support band
