Exercising with an inguinal hernia
When you have an inguinal hernia, it is important to be cautious with exercise. Certain forms of exercise and specific movements can help reduce the risk of the hernia worsening, but exercising incorrectly can aggravate the condition. It is important to listen to your body and pay attention to what feels right and what doesn’t. Exercises that do not cause pain or feel wrong are generally fine to do.
Exercise After Surgery
Immediately after inguinal hernia surgery, it is important to take things easy. However, it is also important to keep moving to reduce the risk of complications. Walking is fine during the first week, but exercise and strenuous physical activity should be avoided. After one week, you can gradually resume gentle exercise, but make sure the wound does not reopen and avoid activities and exercises that cause pain or involve heavy lifting.
What exercises should you avoid if you have an inguinal hernia?
If you have an inguinal hernia, it is important to be mindful of exercises that increase pressure in the abdomen. Heavy lifting, intense strength training and exercises that require you to brace your abdominal muscles forcefully may worsen symptoms in some people. Activities involving sudden changes of direction or strenuous movements may also cause discomfort. This does not mean that you need to avoid all exercise, but it is important to adjust the intensity according to your symptoms and avoid movements that cause pain or increased discomfort in the groin. If you are unsure which activities are suitable for you, seek advice from a healthcare professional. Exercise cannot heal the hernia itself, but adapted physical activity can help you maintain mobility and fitness.
Can you exercise your abdominal muscles if you have an inguinal hernia?
Abdominal exercises should be adapted to how much discomfort your inguinal hernia causes. Exercises such as sit-ups and leg raises can increase pressure in the abdomen and cause discomfort in some people. It may therefore be better to start with gentle movements and exercises that allow you to breathe normally without forcefully tightening your abdominal muscles. Avoid holding your breath when exerting yourself, as this can increase pressure in the abdomen. No abdominal exercise can make an inguinal hernia go away, but a physiotherapist can help you find suitable exercises based on your individual needs and symptoms.
