When it comes to hernia treatment, surgery is often one of the best (and most permanent) solutions. Hernia surgery repairs the weakened or separated connective tissue that allows your organs to protrude, and it’s a relatively straightforward procedure.
Surgery can deliver much-needed relief from hernia pain and discomfort — but it is surgery, and surgery requires post-operative recovery. Balaguru Sambandam, MD, FACS, and our team at North Tarrant Health Providers specialize in hernia surgery in Fort Worth, Texas. One of the most common questions we get from our patients is, “When can I exercise after hernia surgery?”
Every individual is different, but here are a few of the most important considerations when navigating your recovery journey.
The most important thing to do after hernia surgery is to adhere to your surgeon's post-operative instructions. Every situation is unique, and Dr. Sambandam and our team give you individualized guidance that’s specific to your recovery.
We consider factors like the type of hernia you have, the surgical techniques we used, and your overall health when determining when you can start exercising again. Be sure to follow our instructions closely and reach out if you have any questions.
Immediately after hernia surgery, you need to rest to allow your body to heal properly. Be prepared to avoid any strenuous physical activity, including exercise, for the first few days to a week. Your body needs time to recover from the surgical trauma, and pushing too soon can lead to complications or delayed healing.
Once you're past the initial rest period, we typically recommend a gradual return to physical activity. This phase may look different depending on your individual circumstances, but often involves starting with low-impact activities like walking. Your workout intensity and duration can increase slowly over time.
It's crucial to pay close attention to how your body responds to any physical activity throughout recovery. If you experience pain, discomfort, or any unusual symptoms, stop the activity immediately and contact us. Pain or discomfort can be a signal that your body isn’t ready for that level of activity quite yet.
One activity to be particularly cautious about after hernia surgery is heavy lifting. The strain associated with lifting heavy objects can put significant stress on your surgical site and increase your risk of complications or hernia recurrence. We provide specific guidelines for lifting based on your surgery and individual circumstances.
As you gradually return to exercise, keep an eye out for any signs of complications. These may include excessive swelling, redness, fever, persistent pain, or changes in the appearance of the surgical site. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact us right away.
Recovery from hernia surgery takes time. It's important to be patient with yourself and allow your body the time it needs to heal properly. Rushing back into strenuous exercise too soon can lead to setbacks in your recovery, while taking a gradual approach can help you achieve the best possible outcome.
The timeline for when you can exercise after hernia surgery depends on several important factors, and our team is here to answer your questions. To find out what you can expect after your hernia repair procedure, call 817-904-4165 today, or use our easy online booking feature to schedule a consultation at North Tarrant Health Providers any time.
