Belly Button Hernia and Squats

A hernia of the belly button is known medically as an umbilical hernia. This condition is most common in infants but occurs in adults as well. Belly button hernia is generally harmless and has a tendency to resolve on its own.

Umbilical hernias that occur later in adulthood are usually caused by obesity, excess coughing, weak abdominal muscles and heavy lifting. Multiple pregnancies are also considered a risk factor for umbilical hernias. If any of these factors are present, a hernia may occur as a result of increased abdominal pressure.

The primary symptom of an umbilical hernia is a half-inch to two-inch bulge near your navel. This bump may cause pain or discomfort. The primary treatment method for umbilical hernias in adults is surgery. The surgery is performed to avoid the hernia becoming more severe and to prevent complications.

A squat is a compound exercise, which means that it uses a variety of muscles. A squat utilizes your calf muscles, your hamstrings, gluteals, quadriceps and hip flexors. The muscles of your abdominal wall are used in this exercise as a stabilizing force. The squat is used to increase the size and strength of your lower body.

Squats can be performed with or without added weights. This exercise increases your abdominal pressure and has the potential to cause a hernia or make an existing hernia more severe. It is an exercise to be avoided if you have a history of hernias, weak abdominal muscles or are recovering from a hernia correction. Proper form should always be used when performing squats.