Lifestyle Changes to Make After Hernia
Hernia repairs represent one of the most common procedures, with more than 20 million patients all over the world getting this kind of surgery. While surgery is considered a permanent solution, certain factors can trigger hernia recurrence and bring you back into the doctor’s office. Following the proper aftercare after surgery is important, but this is not the only factor that goes into the calculation.
To make sure that your hernia never comes back, you should make certain lifestyle changes. Some are fairly easy to implement, whereas others may require you to get used to them. In this blog, you can learn about certain lifestyle changes that you can make after going through hernia surgery.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia is a condition in which an organ protrudes through a weakened muscle, creating a sometimes painful bulge in the area. The most common hernia is an inguinal hernia in the groin region.
Hernias are not usually life-threatening, or at least not immediately. That being said, they can create a fair amount of pain. The best way to prevent it from worsening is to have a surgical repair. Dr. Moore can perform this surgery robotically through very small incisions.
Top Changes You Should Make After Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery can be a potentially lifelong fix for your condition. For your body to remain in its best shape, there are certain changes that you can make to your lifestyle. These include:
Stop Using Backpacks
Activities such as hiking or daily errands may have had you carrying backpacks, as it is easier to carry your belongings this way. However, this action can put a lot of strain on the healed hernia, putting you at risk of recurrence. While you should not cancel all of your traveling plans, you should switch your backpack with luggage on wheels if possible.
Watch Your Weight
Hernias often occur because there is too much pressure or strain on the tissue holding your organs contained. The more you weigh, the higher that pressure is going to be. Scar tissue is already weaker when compared to regular tissue, which makes it more likely to break in the same spot again. For this reason, you should watch your weight so that there is no extra pressure on the muscles.
Follow a Healthy Diet
While there are not many food restrictions after a hernia, you should follow a healthy diet, containing fiber and protein. A poor diet can also lead to excess weight, which may increase the risk of a recurrent hernia.
Reconsider Your Exercise Routine
Exercise is recommended to keep the weight off after hernia surgery, but you should be careful with your routine. If your usual workout involves a lot of heavy lifting, crunches, or pulling/pushing, you should consider changing it. Opt for cardio exercises that can reduce fat and strengthen your core without putting too much pressure on your abdominal muscles.
The Bottom Line
Hernia surgery can help you get back on your feet so that you no longer have to deal with the symptoms. With that in mind, to prevent your hernia from coming back, you must make certain lifestyle changes. Contact Dr. Moore and set up an appointment for hernia surgery, where you can learn all the information!
For more information about life after a hernia and how to live with a repaired hernia, you can contact Dr. Patrick Moore at 951-477-5700. He can provide you with all the advice that you need at his practice in Murrieta.
