After hernia surgery, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days. Patients should focus on basic daily functions like eating and staying active, with the exception of heavy lifting after discharge. Most surgeons recommend avoiding physical sports for four to six weeks to reduce the risk of developing hernia mesh complications. Swimming is one of the best exercises for people with a hernia, followed by walking, jogging, yoga, and cycling.
After six weeks, the mesh will be healed well enough in place that it won’t really matter. It is recommended to avoid swimming or submerging the incision in water for at least two weeks. After this period, the main exercises are lifting anything over 10kg. Minimizing physical activity in the weeks following surgery can help prevent infection, improve healing, promote comfort, and decrease recovery time.
Be cautious with surgery and avoid invasive approaches if possible. Gentle exercise may be possible after two weeks, but wait on the normal stuff until your surgeon advises. In the first week, moderate walking is the only recommended physical activity to prevent blood clot formation. On the same evening after surgery, you should be able to walk, stand, or climb stairs, though you may feel discomfort at doing so. Do not engage in strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks (or advised by your surgeon).
In summary, after hernia surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activities, stay well-hydrated, and maintain a healthy digestive regimen to prevent infection, improve healing, promote comfort, and decrease recovery time.
📹 What can I expect after hernia surgery? How long is my recovery?
Recovery from hernia surgery varies dramatically from one patient to the next. While one patient may have open hernia surgery …
Is swimming good for hernia recovery?
The good news is swimming is one of the best exercises for people with a hernia, followed by walking, jogging, yoga, and cycling. Because swimming is a no-impact activity, it’s a good way to keep your cardiovascular fitness up, even with a hernia. However, it’s important to first talk with your doctor about when and how much you can swim both before and after hernia surgery.
Elaine K. Howley is an award-winning freelance writer and editor specializing in sports, health, and history topics. Her work has appeared in numerous print and online publications includingAARP.org,Atlas Obscura,espnW, andU.S. News & World Report. A lifelong swimmer who specializes in cold water marathon swimming, she has contributed toSWIMMERmagazine since 2009 andUSMS.orgsince 2012. Contact her via her website:elainekhowley.com.
What sports should you avoid if you have a hernia?
As mentioned earlier, low-impactness is the key when you are exercising with a hernia. If you don’t adhere to those guidelines, your conditions can worsen and lead to a lot of pain that could otherwise have been avoided. High-impact exercises like strength training, HIIT exercises, and running can be problematic when you have a hernia. So, either get a clearance from your doctor that these exercises are safe for your condition or just avoid them temporarily.
Strenuous movements can worsen your hernia symptoms. Running, squats, and sit-ups can strain your abdominal muscles, which canimpact your hernia symptoms. To be safe, you should talk to your doctor regarding your condition and opt for hernia treatment before you start practicing strenuous exercises.
Regardless of the type of hernia you have, doctors will also advise you to stop lifting heavy objects when you have a hernia. It will in most cases lead to worsening in the symptoms of your hernia. Heavy lifting puts a lot of pressure on your intra-abdominal muscles and if you do it repeatedly, it has the potential to make your hernia symptoms worse.
What activities worsen hernia?
Exercises to avoid when you have a herniaHeavy exertion exercises, such as weightlifting, that cause you to strain.Overstretching your abdominal wall. … Core exercises such as planks, sit-ups, crunches and some Pilates exercises.High impact physical activities or contact sports.
Wondering if it’s safe to exercise if you have a hernia?. Trying to maintain an active lifestyle while dealing with a hernia can be difficult. People often wonder if it’s even safe to exercise with a hernia. Although it is possible, it’s important to first speak with a medical professional to be sure you’re choosing exercises and activities that won’t make your hernia worse.
Talk with your doctor first. If you are experiencing signs or symptoms of a hernia, your first step should be to schedule a consultation with an experienced hernia doctor who can assess the severity of your hernia.
Our specialists at the Hernia Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) are trained to assess each individual situation to determine the best treatment option for you.
What should you avoid with an inguinal hernia?
Managing inguinal hernia. If you have had surgery for inguinal hernia, it is important to followall your doctor’s instructions and keep your follow-up appointments.Getting out of bed and walking is an important part of recovery andhelps prevent complications. You can help to keep an inguinal herniafrom coming back after surgery by avoiding heavy lifting and otherstrenuous activity. Ask your doctor what types of activities are safeand when you can return to work.
If you have a small hernia that is being watched or a repaired hernia,take steps to avoid becoming constipated. Eat lots of fiber, drinkplenty of fluids, exercise, and go to the bathroom when you feel theurge.
Call your doctor if your inguinal hernia symptoms get worse, and alwayscall right away if:
How soon after surgery can you submerge in water?
Washing your incisions is good- it is a simple way to minimize the risk of infection. If you have redness, smelly discharge, any openings, or bleeding discuss it with your doctor. For my patients, I give you surgical soap prior to surgery. It is great to use that to clean your incisions after surgery. Usually starting about a week and a half out you will start on scar care.
3 weeks and beyond: If the incision is healed, at this point baths and swimming is ok. Caveat: If there are any areas which seem open (spitting a stitch, a little ulceration, etc), then I would not submerge the incision.
So bottom line: Showers at two days out. Everything else 3 weeks or beyond. Clean incisions are good incisions.
How soon can you ski after surgery?
In most instances, you should be able to resume skiing after this 12-week rehabilitation regimen. Remember that you’ll need to continue working out to ensure the muscles around your knees remain strong. You’ll also want to include flexibility exercises in your regimen. Before getting on the slopes, it’s also a good idea to do some dry training focusing on strength and balance. This will ensure you’re in proper ski shape when you first get out on the mountain.
Generally, it’s not recommended to first learn to ski after knee replacement. If this sport wasn’t part of your lifestyle before surgery, you shouldn’t expect to take it up afterward. Similarly, beginner skiers may be better off looking for new activities to enjoy following knee replacement. If you struggled to get down blue and green runs before surgery, it’s probably not a good idea to try and ski afterward. However, experienced skiers should be fine on the slopes after knee replacement.
Avoid Unnecessary Skiing Risks. While experienced skiers should be able to ski after knee replacement, you may have to make some accommodations. You want to avoid skiing terrain that will result in heavy impact on your knee or significantly increase your risk of injury. The following tips will help you ski safely on a prosthetic knee:
How long does it take to heal inside after hernia surgery?
By this time, the incision site should be well-healed. You should continue to monitor it for any signs of infection or complications.
You should be able to return to work if your job involves limited physical activity.
Two – three months after surgery and beyond. By this stage, most people are well on their way to a full recovery. You can increase the intensity of your physical activities, under the guidance of your doctor.
Remember that everyone’s healing process is unique. It’s essential to listen to your body and follow your doctor’s advice.
How long after hernia surgery can you go swimming in the ocean?
You may start light swimming after two weeks if your wound has healed completely. You may resume heavy exercise and activity six weeks after surgery when your hernia repair has reached its full strength.
Can you ski with a groin hernia?
Advice and treatment options. If you experience groin pain it is best to rest and not ski, as further skiing can make the groin worse. Stretching the groin area and/or gentle massagingcan help to alleviate the symptoms at the time.
If groin disruption is suspected, the initial recommended treatment is rest and physiotherapy. Physiotherapy relies on improving core strength, stretching and adductor rehabilitation. The adductor tendon and the inguinal canal are inter-related, so any improvement in these muscles/tendon groups will have a positive impact on recovery. A careful examination is required to make this diagnosis as well as magnetic scans and possible ultrasound of the groins. In a small percentage of patients surgery is required which can be undertaken by either keyhole or open techniques.
What activities should be avoided after hernia surgery?
- Rest when you feel tired. Getting enough sleep will help you recover.
- Try to walk each day. Start by walking a little more than you did the day before. Bit by bit, increase the amount you walk. Walking boosts blood flow and helps prevent pneumonia and constipation.
- If your doctor gives you an abdominal binder to wear, use it as directed. This is an elastic bandage that wraps around your belly and upper hips. It helps support your belly muscles after surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activities, such as biking, jogging, weight lifting, or aerobic exercise, until your doctor says it is okay.
- Avoid lifting anything that would make you strain. This may include heavy grocery bags and milk containers, a heavy briefcase or backpack, cat litter or dog food bags, a vacuum cleaner, or a child.
- Ask your doctor when you can drive again.
- Most people are able to return to work within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. But if your job requires that you do heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need to take 4 to 6 weeks off from work.
- You may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, if your doctor okays it. Pat the cut (incision) dry. Do not take a bath for the first 2 weeks, or until your doctor tells you it is okay.
- Ask your doctor when it is okay for you to have sex.
- You can eat your normal diet. If your stomach is upset, try bland, low-fat foods like plain rice, broiled chicken, toast, and yogurt.
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor tells you not to).
- You may notice that your bowel movements are not regular right after your surgery. This is common. Avoid constipation and straining with bowel movements. You may want to take a fibre supplement every day. If you have not had a bowel movement after a couple of days, ask your doctor about taking a mild laxative.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
Can you ski after a hernia repair?
The Six Month Mark. By this time you should be able to engage in more high impact movements. Be sure you get Michigan Hernia Surgery’s clearance before beginning.
Sports like baseball, gymnastics, diving, tennis, skiing, cross country, and even weight lifting can be part of your exercise regimen at this point. Whatever you were doing before your hernia should be easy for you now.
Laparoscopic Vs Traditional Hernia Repair. If you had less invasive laparoscopic repair, you may find that it will take less time to reach each level of difficulty.
Can you water ski after ACL surgery?
Recreational Sports (skiing) can typically start at 4-6 months after surgery, while competitive sports average 6-9 months. See you out there, and good luck!
📹 When Can I Exercise After Hernia Repair? Going to Gym After Hernia Surgery -Dr. Parthasarathy
How long after hernia surgery can I exercise? When can I get back to GYM after hernia repair surgery? can i do push ups after …
I’ve had 4 umbilical hernias. I would’ve just had 3 but I got diverticulitis before the third one and they had to do a sigmoid resection that destroyed my abdomen, and the 4th one worked only for a few months and now I need a 5th surgery. But I just wanted to tell you that this is the most informed article I’ve ever seen about this. I know next time I will ice it down whenever I’m ready to get hopefully this last surgery done. The Dr. I had didn’t tell me to refrain long enough on my last surgeries before returning to work. I’m so glad I found this article thank you!🙏
Hello Dr. Harris. Thank you very much for your informative articles and explanations. You are helping a lot of folk and it’s greatly appreciated. I’m a very fit 37 year old male. I’ve had laparoscopic TAPP surgery with mesh on an inguinal hernia about 10 weeks ago. I was told by my surgeon that I would be able to resume to light jogging after 2 weeks with no restrictions at around 4-6 weeks. I had a decent amount of pain and discomfort during the healing process, did not want to risk anything and only returned to jogging/sports by week 6 once I got pain free. I ran 2, 4 and 5 miles within the first week combined with mobility exercises and light weight training to get some core strength back with no pain or issues. At week 7 I helped a friend move a couch while wearing a lifting belt. Unfortunately a day after I started feeling a every so slight burning sensation that became more intense within a few days. I freaked out and started to feel/press/pull my abdominal area over and over again to look for signs of a recurring hernia. No bump. By doing so I feel like I irritated a lymph or nerv (or scar) from repetitive pressing and touching it multiple times a day. Could the burning/pulling sensation come from that? Could it be scar tissue that is stretching? What are the chances of a recurring hernia and the mesh failing after lifting the couch? I did rest for a week with no change. It’s been two weeks now with a burning/pulling sensation. Would you recommend rest or return to light running?
Had open umbilical hernia surgery 2 weeks ago. Just got removed stitches yesterday. Feel comfortable as Do not take too much stress and not thinking too much of outcome. only focus on not stretching things too far. Act according to doctor advice. Am diabetic also. All please Do not hurry for getting back to work or physical activities. Your body demand lot of love from you. So please give it due comfort. Stay blessed!
I’m on Day 3 of recovery. I’m already completely off pain medicine. Don’t be scared, friends. I’m 43, in good health but nothing special. I had a right side inguinal hernia mesh repair — and during my examination my surgeon detected a weakness on the left too, so he meshed that preemptively. All done in one operation, laparoscopically. My right hernia was slightly higher up compared to the average inguinal, I’m told, but I can’t say whether that really effected my comfort after the operation. Day 1 is rough – but not unbearable. No need to be worried. I didn’t even need the opioid painkillers. I stuck to a Tylenol + Aleve combo. Icing is a must. I did 20-30mins on/off for the first 2 days. Helped a lot. Remember to ice your balls too – they swell. I iced in bed right before sleeping, but didn’t do it again until the morning. I had help, but I kept ice packs in a small cooler by the couch, and in another small cooler by the bed for convenience anyway. Also, get up and walk around the room for a few of the 20mins phases when you’re not icing yourself – walking sooner rather than later has speeded up my recovery significantly. Seriously, do it Day 1. Diet is super important: you really, really don’t want to get constipated from the painkillers. So for 2 days BEFORE the operation, I ate vegan/vegetarian meals with high fiber. The afternoon/evening after my surgery, I only drank plain chicken broth (just liquid) with a little fiber powder in it, with salt and herbs, and a handful of saltine crackers.
I’m 80 years old…very healthy. On March 14, 2022 I had repaired an reoccurring hernia, an Umbilical hernia and an Inguinal hernia with mesh laparoscopic all at one time. This is day 18 after surgery and I have pain in my left side that goes from mild, if sitting or in bed, to excruciating if I walk or when moving out of bed. But, then that stabbing pain goes away and I can walk carefully to at least get some exercise in the house. Taking Ibuprofen every six hours. April 12(in 12 days) is when I do the followup. Had zero swelling in my groin and kept in and my stomach iced for the first few days. Wonder if this is normal healing for the 3 procedures I had and my age…thanks for your wonderful service to those of us who enjoy your advice. David Boccabello
I am 7 weeks post op bilateral inguinal hernia repair, while getting better, having up and down days, I feel at least 3 months. The more I talk to peopl who have had the surgery, 3 weeks is a miracle. I had hip surgery as well and same situation. Why do surgeons mislead on recovery time, I honestly am just trying to figure out the motivation.
Had my surgery August 25th, 2020. I was home by 2:30pm of same day with very little to no pain. Walked around a little but just sat on couch most the day. Pain today hovers at about 4 to 5 on pain scale. Using ice to keep inflation down. Took a short walk too. All in all not as bad as I had anticipated 🙂
I had open inguinal hernia surgery with Dr. Harris and the surgery went smoothly. But my pain finally reduced to a manageable level after 10 days. So expect minimum 10 days to be able to get up from your bed without significant pain. The post op instructions were insufficient and weak, I had to do a lot of internet research to find out why I was running a low grade fever, why my stomach was bloated, and the use of an Enema to help the first bowel movement (what a relief!) Also Lazyboy recliner is a must (better yet to have the one that lift you up), had I known I would have bought a lift chair / recliner before the surgery. days 2-5 were the most painful. Need lots of sleep so I took Advil PM, your body repairs much better if you get sufficient sleep every day. I am definitely on the road to recovery but it still hurts around the cut/scar area and also when I sneeze or cough after 4 weeks. 4-7 days of recovery is really a marketing ploy, it’s more like 4 to 7 weeks for open surgery.
operated my hernia finally after 11 years using mesh method and all I can say that I was an idiot for not going earlier after 3 weeks I can ride my bike normally. So all I cn say if you got hernia and you re scared of operation, go do it right away recovery is fast and operation is nothing to be scared and after operation you fell good: So to everyone having hernia fix it and go on with your life its no big deal trust me
Just had my surgery today. Feeling sore and some pain getting up and down. I had an inguinal hernia. For my first surgery ill say its not to bad I went all day without pain meds only so I can see how bad it hurt. I give the pain a 5 on a 1to 10 scale. When relaxing barley and pain. I got my surgery right away while my hernia was small. So anyone going to surgery you will be ok. Your just going to take a nap and wake up. My surgery was 1hr and 22 min long. So hope this helps first day post opp and im feeling ok. Be careful moving have help.
Thanks for the article. My surgeon used a laparoscopic technique w/ mesh and she told absolutely no exercise before 8 weeks, however it’s only been four days and I currently feel almost back to normal. I’d really like to get back to physical activity after 3ish weeks like you described in the article, and I want to know your opinions on this. For reference I’m 18 years old, five foot eleven about 150 lbs.
I had a hernia repaired last year, and I STILL have pain. Also, where my mesh is, is rock hard. I’ve told my doctor about it, and he assures me the distension will subside, and he says the pain is normal. So, I’m going to have pain all the time now? I’m beginning to wish I hadn’t had my hernia repaired at all………….
Had my surgery on Monday, since then I find it extremely painful to get out of bed and stand. There are times where I manage to make it to the bathroom only to not use the restroom. I’ve had a vasectomy before and this pain outweighs that by 10. Any tips on getting moving about? It’s extremely painful so far, almost unbearable.
I’ve just had my third hernia surgery. My most recent was a prevascular hernia. I’m in a lot of pain involving my hip, and groin. This latest surgery is higher than my last femoral hernia repair…..and I have a huge long line of scar tissue. I’m full of mesh, because of previous repairs….and after a week, I’m still in terrible pain. #IHATEHERNIAS Btw…I’m female, and I’m slim! This should not have happened to me lol!
A reputable doctor did Liposcopic surgery on my hernia two years ago. He said activity as permitted, which was a big mistake,over two years later I still have inflammation in my right testicle on my right side. Testicle is 10 times larger than my left side testicle. I told my PCP both years during my routine physical and they just ignored and dismissed it. .🤷🏻♂️ Is this something that will be with me permanently? 😮 This surgery is no joke and from what I experienced recovery time should be a long time !
Great explanation and definitely doing this. This will be my second hernia surgery which is a repair to the first one because unfortunately I was not able to take care of it correctly due to having a 3 year old and a new born at that time. But I’m planning to do the minimal activity I can in order to recover. I miss playing soccer so much!
It’s good to hear this. I have a consultation soon to have a umbilical hernia repaired. All the other articles I’ve watched all all gloom and doom. They all seem to suggest you will be worse after the surgery than before getting the surgery. I was pretty much giving up on getting it fixed and live with the hernia. I’m very active and don’t want to live the rest of my life in pain.
Day one, i am sore as heck, but i’ll live. last night i had the sweats, and vomited, i guess thats common in smokers, but i felt great afterwards, and even found a good position to sleep.my hernia was about an inch over my belly button, no mesh, just a few stitches.I am 56, and this was my very first operation…because my blood pressure was so high, nerves i believe, they put me under and i didn’t even know it. I am so glad they did it that way….all i remember is them saying, we’re just giving you some oxygen. they were excellent, every single one of them..and that made it so much better.so glad i had this done.every experience will be different, so don’t go by me, this is just my experience.
Thanks for posting this informative & helpful vid. Seeing my surgeon the week after next after being admitted to A & E (I’m in the UK) with an incarcerated indirect inguinal hernia & have never felt agony like it in my life. They initially gave me morphine for the extreme pain which ironically relaxed me & the fascia and the incarceration resolved & then I was discharged awaiting a surgical intervention. I had a follow up ultrasound which confirmed the initial diagnosis. Thanks again Dr for the vid as hearing you explain the process is helping my anxiety somewhat.
I have this huge hernia after having tumours removed on both kidneys in march of 2013. The hernia has gradually gotten worse. I was split open from the middle of my nipples to just below the belly button. Seems that absolutely all of the stomach muscle has drawn to each side allowing all of my intestine to flow out. I use a hernia belt whenever I leave the house. An operation would be a big ordeal I gather, but living like this is very problematic as well.
I’m on day one of inguinal open mesh surgery, I woke up after surgery sore, pain was mild but they put a tube in your throat while you sleep, so you feel like you gotta cough once awake, advice avoid coughing, that was painful like 6 out of 10. I read so much variety of reports I was afraid this would feel like hell, so far its mild, it’s like a sore muscle. Just be careful getting up and down. I am taking the pain meds and plan to go for 3-4 days. So far surprised how mild pain is. Will update some other time on how I’m feeling Day 2: today was more painful to get up but not crazy bad, laying down felt the same, just go slow with getting up and down, and use an ice pack.
Thank you for being concise, this is the best article that summarize what to expect after hernia surgery. I had my inguinal hernia surgery for about 8 weeks, I was feeling great up till 3 weeks and I was told my my doc to it is ok for me to walk, now I have discomfort feeling around the groin area, I have no swelling or anything just discomfort and sometimes pain, I’m too scared to go get checked hoping this is normal. I stopped doing my daily walking which is terribly impacting my daily life routine. I just hope this is a common feeling and nothing wrong is happening. 🙏
This gives me hope, I am only on day 12 with robotic mesh surgery and I am climbing the walls wondering how I can wait 6 weeks to resume anything. I don’t feel anything other than extremely minor discomfort, so I have been doing some elliptical work as well as minor movements (bicep curls, triceps) with 10 pounds dumbbells. It makes alot more sense that by week 3 I should be able to start resuming normal activities starting light. It never made sense that a generic blanket statement of 6 weeks, nothing more than 10 to 20 pounds would apply to everyone. Previous to my hernia surgery, I was working out 6 days a week so surely I am different than an 80 year old who is overweight and never works out? Yet, they would get the same generic advice from their doctors. Ridiculous if you ask me.
Thank you so much you are truly helping so many people. I had 4 small epigastric hernia repair 2 pieces of mesh placed. It has been 6 days since my surgery and I still have pain and pushed my self a little doing house work. Now I am fully resting and taking some pain meds. I feel constipated and even trying to let gas out feels hard. Any advice truly appreciate it?
Liked this reassuring article also. I’m having a ventral hernia surgery in abt 6 wks n altho my surgeon told me it’s likely from my childbirth yrs (30 yrs ago?!) I think it’s from my abdominal surgery 5 yrs ago..worse is my muscle layer has a separation that he says can’t be closed but will reinsert my intestines laparoscopically but will also open me up to place a mesh to strengthen the area. Hoping for no complications or lasting pain..I have no pain at all right now.
Hello Doctor- had my inguinal hernia surgery 2yrs ago. That’s right, 2 yrs ago. Since then it’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride, good days, bad days. On bad days I get sudden stabbing pains in the area, other days just a dull, burning sensation. Of late the discomfit has been more persistent and I was just beginning to wonder whether it’s a pain management issue or back on the operating table. Wasn’t quite expecting this as I had the hernia on the other side done 20 yrs ago with no problems.
Still weak and in pain at week 5. Doctor said for me to not lift more than a gallon of milk until I see him again which will be at week 7. This is due to abdominal swelling and pain that popped back up. So it all depends on the person and how extensive the surgery is. I also had revision surgery from old mesh along with the new hernia repair. Hernia nearly as big as my fist.
I had it Monday. Had some pain. Mostly getting up. The major problem was going to the bathroom. By day 3-4 getting up was getting easier. But by day 5 I still could not poop. My arse actually hurt more than the surgery. I felt bloated and not very hungry. I got some laxative and stool softener. They said not to push. I had to every time I stood up I felt like I had to go. After going I feel much better all around. Surgery is not as bad as what I see on here. My brachial plexus was a lot worse.
Hi, thanks for the article. I would like to ask some maybe unusual question about recovery phase: Some people experience constipation in first 1-7 days after surgery. is it possible to disrupt mesh on fift to seventh day after surgery during bowel movements tensioning if you have harder stool and need to push a bit more? I had that situation but I didn’t have pain after. Thanks!
It’s my fourth day after my umbilical hernia surgery operation… And I am still very sore, I find it hard to stand up straight when I try and walk to the bathroom… The only thing that I’m worried about at night time is the amount of pain in my chest and back when I breathe… Which I’ve read could be from when I was under anesthesia? Wasn’t sure if someone could explain this to me I have my two week follow up coming up but I was just curious. Also is sleeping on my side with a pillow OK? Since I find it hard to breathe on my back and I haven’t been getting much sleep. Love your page!
I had a double (one above my belly button, one below) hernia repair surgery, using mesh to repair my hernias on Oct 10th. It’s now Dec 22 and I’m hurting as bad as I ever did before. The pain is horrible right this very second. I have been very careful since surgery. No lifting more than 15 lbs, no riding dirtbikes, no physical activities of any kind. I’m hardly able to do my job properly and its just a retail job. I am experiencing the same pain I had before the surgery. Very frustrating.
You comment very little about pain. Unfortunately I find that doctors pay little attention to pain. Im in my fourth day and I still hurt. I’m glad I had the surgery but the matter of pain control options should be at the top of discussion for post operation recovery. My doctor sent me home with 5 mg percaset every 6 hours. He upped it to 10 mg every 4 hours. I added ibuprofen with his ok. I’m still in bad pain, about a 5 on the 1-10 scale.
Had the surgery just over a week ago (keyhole), now my hernia was quite (large 2.5″ hole in my abdominal wall) I am more mobile now, but still playing it careful as I am carrying extra weight my chances of recurrence are higher so longer rest period for me. Overall, it’s not terrible after the initial few days
After inguinal hernia open surgery my surgery side testie goes above near height of penis and bcz of i feel swelling on above side …after 3 to 4 hour my testie comes below and swelling goes away .its happen in the morning when i come from morning walk and do pooping..wt is the reason ??. I have checked my doctor he checked my hernia by his hand and said .its ok..it has been 56 days of my surgery.
Ok bowl movements after a hernia surgery. Should people automatically start with a stool softener after surgery then if needed go to a laxative, then an enema if necessary? Could those meds be combined and for how long should people take these bowl movement helpers if you will? I doubt push it real good should be an option. If no luck after how many days would be considered serious? Thanks.
Just had inguinal hernia surgery 3 days ago…I would think that 3 weeks is a bit short to tell people they are free to do as they please…. Just seems to be a very short time to step right back into a full blown exercise and or work lifting etc….. I heard about to many meshes that failed within the first yr.
I had hernia repair open surgery 4 weeks ago and im still in pain almost worse than the hernia was . I feel sharp needle sensation andbthe pain is bad . I went to the post op check up and they said everything is healing as expected. So should have a scan done to check if something is wrong …this is nothing like any of the comments above it feels like screen door mesh was used its awful
I had laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair six months ago and it has been horrible. My condition is actually worse than before the surgery. My right testicle has been swollen and inflamed and is still approximately 100% larger than my left testicle. My condition is worse because of the pain and aching associated with my testicle being affected as opposed to just the less sensitive abdominal material that would occasionally protrude though my abdominal wall. My condition is affecting my activity level. I cannot walk for extended periods of time before the aching spreads to my lower belly area causing an upset stomach and ultimately headaches. I am dealing with chaffing because of the abnormal size of my right testicle. I can no longer complete a full yoga workout, ride a bike or jog/run and this has caused my physical condition to continually decline since the surgery. I have lost notable muscle mass, flexibility and my energy level is continually lessening. I am considering have the testicle removed.
Bit over 4 weeks since op. Still very sore off and on. Today I walked for about 1/2 hour and was in extreme pain, like something was pulling. Been taking it easy but I need to get back to work soon. In New Zealand they say take it very easy for 4 weeks and back to moderate work after 6 weeks. I know there is no way I’ll be able to work in a bit over a week. Severe discomfort most of the time also sore testicle. They had to cut a nerve in groin which as they said leaves my upper groin numb, very weird sensation. Not comfortable, not happy.
I got my op done without insurance through dr prakash. He’s been doing hernias for 50 years. It’s been 6 weeks since I had mine and I’m a NPC bodybuilder. Just the feeling of a foreign object in my body I feel it so often due to me being so lean. When I lay in bed on my stomach. When I rub my belly. Went on walks everyday 3 times a day 7 days post op to now. Been working for a week as well. But I am so scared to go balls to the wall when I am at the gym. Idk why but I am just so scared to start lifting anything above 20 lbs in the gym.
Day 5 post op (inguinal hernia mesh surgery). The pain has not improved and seems to have gotten worse in the area of the mesh. Still can barely get in and out of bed. Cannot tie my own shoes or put on a pair of socks. I had been holding off on the morphine until today where I had no choice. Testicles are swollen too and painful (started to feel this around day 4-5). Very disappointing and concerning recovery so far
I had my operation one month ago – Mine was the second time in five years. This time i had open surgery. rather than laparoscopic. However, i still have a hard lump and i am numb around the scars. I am worried that i over did it after two weeks when i went to work and carried a few heavy items and soon after helped decorate a friends house. Now the operation was a month ago i thought i would be recovered…but after being at work i still get incredible aches and a pulling feeling in my scrotum.
i had my surgery 3 weeks ago, no complications as such. but just one concern, i have a lump where the scar is, it started out as a seroma, now its kind of hard. Doctor told me that it should shrink over time. But he also said that if it doesnt shrink they might need to operate!!!!!! i am do disappointed!! as i thought everything was going to be ok!!
Hello. Can a hiatas herina cause difficulty breathing when bending over, or using strength like swinging an axe or sledge? Whenever I tighten my core, even bending over to tie my shoes its hard to breathe yet I can run on a treadmill for 20 mins hitting upwards of 182 bpm without issue. Does all this chiropractic Hernia adjust stuff actually work? Im a fire fighter so am trying not to have this surgery but the breathing issues can get severe now like an asthma attack almost. Ive done All the tests from asthma to allergies, copd etc, stress tests for the heart, xrays you name it. even had 2 surgeries on the nose, the septum and then the enlarging of the holes in the nasal passage way at the top near the brain and eyes area. Nothing helps. I do clear my throat alot, assuming thats gastric reflux from the hernia.
Hello doc, I had bilateral inguinal hernia surgery done laparoscopic 7 months ago. I am still having pain everyday in the surgery area. The pain is always present, I tend to feel better while asleep. I took an MRI last week, nothing was found besides an enlarged prostate gland. My surgeon suggested ultrasonic treatment with physical therapist. Could you provide some comments on this? Thank you
Thanks for your wonderful explanation.I had my hernia surgery 3 weeks ago. I feel hard lump on thr surgery site almost as big as a small lemon. I have started feeling short mild pain Of one or two minutes almost three or four times a day. I am actively working with good sleep and intake of nutrious food. I even consukted the doctor he said it can be fluid accumulated in it and recommended me to do ultra sound. Iam scared it is recurrence of hernia ….please reply
I just had umbilical hernia surgery yesterday, the hernia did not stick out but could be felt when pressing down right above the belly button. I’m in the worst pain, feels like they tore all my abdominal muscles, I can’t get up, walk, anything yet, haven’t even passed gas, but I’m sure that’ll take more time. Also takes me 20 minutes to pee cuz u have to use those abdominal muscles to push the urine out, craziest thing I’ve ever been through, I really hope it gets better.
Does using mesh cause problems tho and infection and does the body try to reject it I have heard horror stories from using mesh is it safe to use please I have a hiatal hernia I hate it it’s ruining my life and I don’t know what to do although you have reassured me thank you Dr I’m from UK 💜 sorry I just found your article on today’s mesh that is used thank goodness I feel a bit better now thank you Dr so much 💜 also can I ask please I absolutely hate taking omeprozle meds after surgery can I stop taking this medication the side effects make me feel ill thank you Dr💜
Dear all perusal this article and the kind doctor: I am on day 14 of an open inguinal hernia (large-ish) surgery. Manageable pain and swelling so far. I am looking for advise on whether some stretching exercises would help and any resources on the types of exercises I could do to prevent my body from weakening too much and for the mesh to set naturally. Any thoughts or signposting much appreciated.
Hi doctor, thank you for your advises, you explain so well and clear. I am from Australia Today I had my operation for 2 hernia in the umbilical area with a Mesh. It’s day 1 and I am in so much pain. I have a 2 year old daughter at home so I will need extra help from family for when I get back. Its just so painful. I wasn’t expecting for it to be this painful as I will be discharged on day 4 from hospital I have two questions if you could please advise me. 1. How long is the pain going to last? 2. When would it be safe to fall pregnant again? Also what happens to the Mesh when I fall pregnant? Thank you. Fernanda
my doctor advised me no lifting more than 15 lbs after 6 weeks and after 8 weeks i still have yet to do that. he also recommended i take stool softeners. although the actual direct site of my hernia isnt painful, i feel pain and soreness in nearby areas such as my left hip/waistline area. i would liken it to a bruise almost, even though i dont notice one. im taking pain medication still and giving myself time before i decide to see my surgeon again if the pain doesnt improve.
Hi Doctor. Spigelian Herna recovery advice. I had a keyhole and open surgery apparently it was needed. I’m day 14 post op. bruising has reduced however I have ridge below the open incision area and a swollen fluid like buldge above the incision area .very uncomfortable is this normal and will it go away
I had surgery 20 days ago (laparoscopic). I was on my chair at work and pulled myself forward towards my desk, and suddenly felt a subtle ‘movement’ at the hernia site. It didn’t hurt or leave a bulge – it was just a sensation of weight/pressure. The feeling went away very shortly, but I briefly thought I felt it again the next day. It’s very subtle, so it’s difficult to tell how much of the sensation is psychological. But I’m really scared a tack broke or the mesh is loose.
I just had my 4th post op with my Surgeon since my hernia surgery on June 29th. Everything is all good but he said I will still experience some inflammation from time to time because my body is still adjusting from having surgery. But no hernia reoccurrence and he told me I can take it up a notch in the gym. Hope this helps.
I’ve had 3 inguinal hernia surgery’s and am now 40 years old. My last surgery was 2 years ago. After my last surgery, the surgeon told me I should never do push ups, pull ups or any heavy weights. He even told me that I should never plan to do long hikes etc. Why is this the case if you are saying I should be able to recover fully. Please could you shed some detail on this as it is very confusing and seems to contradict what you are saying. 2 years on, and I still have weekly pain. Am I that 1% that will have this pain for the rest of my life and never be able to tone my abs again?
My 6yrs old son had bilateral hydrocele,on 7th July 2021,herniotomy surgery was done,and just now 23rd August2021,I’ve seen his left testicle swollen,luckily it’s not painful but its worrying me….could it be treated without any other surgery,cause the state i saw my son in immediately after the surgery,i wouldn’t wish to my enemies
I need bilateral hernia repair. Doctor says it’s will be laporoscopic. I drive a diesel flatbed truck for a living, but don’t lift anything myself, a machine does the work. after perusal patient articles I’m learning people can walk a mile 7 days after surgery, don’t know if that’s all they do as far as activities, or how much rest/care they receiving on day 1 and 2 but I’d think if I could walk a mile I’m going to be healthy enough to go to work as long as my bathroom habits are not painful. Generally speaking if I work today with a bilateral hernia and no one is aware could I not return to work in 1-1.5 weeks? Again it’s driving but I sit as much as a desk job. Healing in 1 wk or healing in 3 weeks is the difference between me getting surgery in 4 weeks or 5 months
I had surgery 20 days ago and I had diastasis recti and incisional umbilical hernia that was 5 inches by 2.5 inches and 15-25cm mesh used. He said my muscles were completely separated and he had to pull them back together. My question is I’m still having pain that I’m managing with Tylenol every 6 hours, is this normal? I have the electric shocks which I know are the nerves regenerating, but I’m getting tired of being in pain. I can’t walk very far or fast, but I do have good moments. When are the bad moments going to end and be able to feel normal and pain free? Mine was done laparoscopically robotically. I feel pulling too. The mesh is a little above my belly button to just behind my pubic bone. Thanks
good morning Dr. Harris…its been 3 days since my laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernias..while sleeping on my right side, i tried to turn onto my back and i felt a sudden stabbing pain to the left of my navel, near the incision stitches…i got up and walked to the kitchen and took 600mgs of ibuprofen and the stabbing sensation subsided pretty quickly as i tried to calm my fears, and just a slight stinging sensation remained as i sat up throughout the rest of the early morning hours…is that normal?, and what could that have been? i felt like my healing process was going fairly well up to that point as i did pass gas several times and had pain free bowel movements earlier in the day… i am quite concerned i may have damaged something while turning in my sleep…i have had no fever or nausea at all in the 3 days since my surgery, and other than some bloating on days 1 and 2 after surgery everything seemed to be going well…i would GREATLY appreciate your input regarding this matter…Thank You, Dr. Harris
Thank you so much for your professional and very informational articles on this topic! I had open inguinal repair 15 days ago. I haven’t done any sneezing or coughing but I have laughed really hard like 10 times in the last 5 days… it hurts like crazy when I do so I try not to but it’s so hard to keep from laughing! Was wondering if this is a super bad thing during recovery??
hi Doc I experience pain on my right side abdominal my Doctor gave me a physical and said it was a abdominal strain I was still working out in the gym and the symptom wasn’t going away so I went back and my doctors did an ultra scan and they didn’t find nothing on the the screen I don’t know what else to do and the symptom comes and goes but only after the gym
Hi Doctor, Firstly, thanks a lot for the information. I find it very useful and honestly it uplifted my spirits, since I’m scheduled for inguinal hernia surgery next week (laparoscopically). I have a question though, will I be able to do ab workouts like I used to before the surgery? I read some people saying they had to wait months before they could be back to their normal workout routine, and that is a big concern for me, because I’m a professional athlete. In your article, you mentioned that patients usually could go back to their normal lifestyles after the third week mark. Does that include athletes who work out on a daily basis? Thank you in advance!
Sir; 2 weeks are over. I am recovering and feeling better. I wasn’t advised any medicine.. However; area that was operated is weak and I do feel it. It is not severe pain (but for sure I feel it weak with some pain or maybe stress).. Is it normal that there will be some weakness/pain which will automatically go away with time? I do not think that I will be in a position to do everything after 3 weeks as you mentioned.
Hello Doc. I had bilateral inguinal hernia surgery 3 weeks back. Still have sensations and pain at oeprated area on right side and on right leg is paining since right hernia was major. Got ultrasound and it shows small lesion around the mesh. I am still not back to normal and it’s very irritating. Pls suggest what I should do
Hi i just want to know i had a historectomy last year but there where problems and i was in and out of hospital for 3 months after that. now my dr said i have a few hernias but what worries me is that i dont have a navel anymore emd the scar is very nice they did cut me from top to bottom and the scar is zig zag not staight so how will they fix the hernias now? will they have to remove the first scar or what? i am so scared. please give advise for me to what to expext…
Hi doc! Thanks for the advise. I had umbilical hernia at birth which didn’t close on it’s own. Basically painless my whole life but got concerned and had the repair with mesh 5days back without the surgeon making an artificial umbilicus. I am worried that I am gonna be stuck with big outie(navel) for the rest of my life. Please, I will appreciate any help or advise.
Very interesting over here in the uk, we are told 6 weeks before normal sports lifting activities. I am 7 days post op and walking around indoors. Question I have is how to get up off my bed? It’s difficult for me with the surgery. Is there a best practice for getting upright in the bed? I am relying on using my legs and arms to hoist myself upright.
Im at week 8 after laporoscopic inguinal repair surgery with a mesh, how long is the wait before resuming sport like Rugby and Judo or heavy weightlifting or plyometric exercises? I have heard different answers such as 6 weeks, which I dont believe to 6 months. I have no pain but even now if i lie flat on the floor and extend my arms above my head my groin is sore/tight. Your article implies 3 weeks and ramp up but is it realistic to start playing Rugby after that?
Hello sir, Im an 18 year old male and Ive had an open mesh repair for my indirect inguinal hernia .It’s been 16 days since the day of my surgery and I do not feel any pain normally but a bit of pain while I’m lying down and a small pulling sensation inside, while getting on and off the bed . The incision and the area below it are still a bit numb . How long do I have to wait till I can run, jump and lift weights ( atleast 8kgs) safely . ?
No limitations on weights or exercise? A complete rubbish generalisation. I’ve have had 4 HH operations the last one being a left thoracotomy which require at least 3 months off work with a continual lifetime of discomfort through internal muscle damage caused by surgery. You should treat any HH repair as exactly that, “a repair”, you are not completely fixed as it can tear over and over again resulting in many painful procedures. All i need to do is look in the mirror at my 13in scar to tell me that after my first repair i needed to take more care and ease up.
I had a major operation since than every morning I sit in the bed at least an hour so I wonder that does it cause lower back pains the way I sit? I was diagnosed with hernia as well.im getting massive lower back pains.in the morning especially I get stiffness. Yesterday I fell down in the kitchen I felt sudden pain on my lower back right side of it.i was thinking even to call 999 but after few minutes I was managed to get up. I wonder that I get lower back pains is it because of the way I sit in the bed and also does that cause hernia as well? A doctor said I have got hernia on both sides and I need an surgery operation. I’m not cynical but I live on my own if I go ahead with hernia operation than my life would be very difficult. I also have a 3 years old toddlers I wont be able to lift him up. I wonder that they way we sit in the bed after woken up does that cause hernia problems? Last year I admitted to A&E twice this year one. For lower back problems. Any answer would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. X Ps I have no lumps bumps in the groin area apart as thickness as a pen…stiff that’s all .
My job requires lifting a 25 lb ramp multiples times a day and assisting patients in and out of a medical transportation van. Also, pushing 300 to 400 lb patients in sidewalks and up ramps. When do you think I will be healed enough for that type of activity. I am a 60 yr old man and will be having unbiblical hernia surgery. Thanks!
Hey! Doc I am a fitness enthusiast. I had a Laparoscopic Surgery 5 weeks ago, can I start working out in gym. I used to lift heavy weights before my operation. Now I am in a dilemma that if I could start lifting heavy weights like before. Coz I’ve heard that one should not lift weights for at least 2-3 months. If your answer is “Yes” then Could you back it up with medical science?
It’s been 12 hours since my umbilical hernia surgery, So far it hasn’t been that bad, feels sore like after a hardcore ab workout. I have to get up and down carefully if sitting or lying down. They prescribed all kinds of meds but haven’t felt the need to take them. Pain level is like a 1 and I’ve been icing often to reduce the swelling. Soon I’ll have to take a stool softener. I’ve been eating light, non greasy or spicy foods and drinking lots of water which makes me pee often
Laparoscopic umbilical hernia, over 2 weeks out now. Still having lots of muscle and abdominal pain. Lots of muscle spasms. It’s weird. First few days sucked real bad, but I find I’m still getting lots of muscle pain. It’s weird, it shifts around my abdomen. Anyone have anything similar? Makes me nauseous if I even push a little bit on something.
I’m 69 and have been given a bate for my operation its a umbilical hernia with a lump my belly button about the size of half a tennis ball plus another hernia just above my belly button, it’s going to be open surgery with mesh, everyone says it will be ok but I’m quite frightened as to the recovery time as I’m on my own and wonder how long it will be untill I can lift, drive, manage on my own. I did ask as some women have cizerians and my opening is going to be the same size 7inches, but was told that my hernia opening needs to be pulled back to where it should be a have reconstruction. Am I over worrying.
I just had a abdominal hernia operation on March 24. I knew going into the operation I had 3 hernia’s but when I came out of the operation, the doctors told me I had hernia’s. Unfortunately I have heart disease. I have a pace maker and a mechanical heart valve, also I do have a hole in my heart filled with a mesh. Speaking of mesh, during the operation the doctor covered the one hernia that he operated on in 2015 that ruptured. When he clipped the other 3 he put a bigger mesh to cover up all of hernia’s, including the ruptured one that he already covered with a mask already. To be very honest with you, I feel allot of pain and today when I looked at the drain pouch that the doctor put in, the colour of my blood was not normal, it looked more on the orange and thick transparent like fluid. I’m really hoping it’s not an infection but can anyone help me to understand what that can be ? Thx.
I have commented on your site before that I was to have a hernia surgery here in Florida. Its been a year now since the operation .I feel like it might of not of went well, I have a bulge that pops up above my belly button when I get up from a laying position . I also feel like I have no support in my stomach muscles . I feel strain in stomach when I bend to get things or bend to clean or lifting. I live in Florida and I was wondering what would be the cost for consultation and examination of my umbilical hernia that I had repaired last February here in Florida if I was fly over to see you?
Hi, I had my first operation, laparoscopic inguinal hernia mesh repair (both sides) 6 weeks ago. My hernias were very small and the operation went well according to my doctor. Im still in much more pain and limitations right now than before the surgery. Im currently taking daily 2-3 alevdon painkillers. I try to go for walks daily (as much as my body can handle) but I am always in mild, to moderate to close to difficult pain, all the nurses I’ve been talking to regarding advice is saying different things when I ask if I should listen to the body and not go beyond pain and sort of limit my walking after that and rest when I am in pain or is it better to keep yourself moving as long as it isn’t very difficult pain or will I make it worse by “forcing” myself since its “only” been 6 weeks? I manage to go for walks daily in total 1-3h hours now spread out through the day. Is it better to force myself and that can help me or is it going to make it worse? Some have said to be its good to be active but don’t force yourself to the point were you feel pain and let the pain be the sight to limit/stop. whilst others have said to me that I must be active, despite the pain and keep going (until you hit your limit where as you can’t go further) because it might get worse and movement is the thing that can make it better. Im very confused, I’m trying to be active, and going home taking pauses lying in bed but my mind and body says “no” because it hurts, and then I hear different advices from the nurses and I don’t know if I’m helping myself or making it worse.
4 weeks ago I had a umbilical hernia, about 1cm big, them put on it a small mesh a little bigger then the hernia, I’m feel very good, I just want it know when I can workout and working normal, I’m working in construction so is hard work, and I’m like workout with weights, when I can do that? Squats, bench press and all that? Thanks doctor for let us know.
Hi i have a question. I had the surgery 2 months and a half ago. I did no exercise from the first month. Then i started doing some heavyweight training/light calisthenics. After almost two months after the surgery i didn’t tried pull ups. Then i started calmly. A week ago i did again pull ups, and as always i hadn’t had any pain while training. But afterwards i felt some pain in the area and these past few days is better but i’m still worried, because its like if i’ve gone back to the end of the first month, and i wish i haven’t damaged anything. For example. I didn’t have pain while coughing no more, but now sometimes i do. I would be extremely grateful if you could help me out! Thanks.
Hello Dr I have a question please i had laparoscopic suregy for my bilateral ingunal hernia and starting third week I was doing great till the fourth week I started having pain on my right side and a very small marble like thing is bulging out and it feels a bit painful when i touch it also my constipation came back is this normal? I did ultrasound and x ray and doctors told me its IBS and there is no bowel obstruction
I’ve had 3 hernia surgeries. I was born with a hernia that was the size of a quarter.after my first hernia surgery (got mesh) it lasted a year. then the hernia came back twice the size. I went to a different doctor and got another bigger mesh put in (which I didn’t know they never removed the first one) that lasted 6 months and my hernia came back the size of a grapefruit. I just had my last hernia surgery and they put in a 8″×10″ mesh using a new practice and sewing my ab muscles on top of the mesh to give it extra strength. it’s been almost 3 months and I’m in more discomfort than I was before the surgery is this normal? And will I ever go back to feeling normal?
I have done my left inguinal hernia open surgery 9 days back with mesh. I am feeling good.. but I feel rubbery like long thick stuff below my incision when I touch. What is it.. is it skin or inner stitches or something else. Left inguinal area is bit swelled as well. Is it normally… Please help me with your thoughts. Thanks.
Umbilical and inguinal mesh repair, open for Umbilical and keyhole for inguinal. All was going well pain basically 0 or 1/10 at worst. Then from about day 7 my testicle and groin area became tender and sore, especially when i go to sit down. After reading could this most likely be nerve damage or rubbing from the mesh? Will it go away? Im now at week 3. Doc said just to take anitflamitary pills, they dont do anything to fix the sensation.
Hi doctor. I had inguinal hernia repair on right side with laparoscopy and mesh. After 2-3 days when I started moving around as advised by the surgeon, I am experiencing swelling without pain in the scrotum in the right side. It causes discomfort while moving around. My surgeon is out for town for a couple of days, but over the phone he mentioned that it can happen because of subcutaneous gas used in laparoscopy retain in scrotum for 2 weeks. I couldn’t find much on the internet suggesting the same. Also, can conditions like hydrocele follow the repair?
I am overwhelmed perusal this article since I had a congenital inguinal hernia. I am 26 years old and still struggling on it. ;’/ The bulgy part of my groin keeps me in discomfort and heavy all the time. Sometimes, there’s a sharp pain and pressure below. I have mixed emotions right now like I am so anxious because I am planning to take on the surgical repair like I am so worried something the aftermath surgery. My do’s and don’ts or can I survive? or can my inguinal hernia be 100% go away after surgery? or can I be a normal person after surgery? or can I have heavy exercises after I’ll be fully healed with hernia surgery (because I am so thin because of this shitty condition)? Lord. huhu. I really wanted to be a normal person for the several years of my challenges huhuhhhu like I have the bravery to go into surgery. What I am so worried was the recovery and the chances of recovery. huhu Lord! Please doc, what are your thoughts about my status doc plsss tell me!!! I need your advice. hhuhu
Hey doctor thankyou soo much for this article.im 16 years old i also Workout with heavy weights.but i had a hernia surgery 2 weeks ago now i want to ask you that can i start my heavy weight training again after 1 month.my doctor said i should not lift heavy anymore of it will cause hernia again.please tell mee what should i do?