People resort to hernia surgery to get relief; however, it is important to continue to fight for your health. We will tell you how to act correctly to speed up recovery. Whether the hernia is located in the abdomen, navel, groin, or upper thigh, the principles of recovery after the surgery are the same. You will have to lead a healthy lifestyle; for example, get rid of excess weight. Any excess weight puts pressure on the abdominal wall. This can cause tension and even lead to the appearance of another hernia. Read on about the importance of weight loss after hernia surgery and the ways to do it.
Generally, patients feel quite well immediately after hernia surgery and resume normal eating habits and activities. However, you still need to be very careful to prevent problems. Among the difficulties that may arise after surgery are urinary retention, wound infection, etc. Skin damage heals within a week or two, but internal tissues take longer to heal, and this process can continue for 6 months or more. Doctors do not recommend heavy activity and exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Intervertebral hernia surgery is classified as an extremely complex surgical intervention. It is important to rehabilitate correctly to return to normal life without pain or discomfort. The main goal of rehabilitation measures is to restore the full range of motion. It is also necessary to pay attention to forming a muscle corset. Many muscles, ligaments, and fascia that envelop the spine are responsible for movement. They distribute the load evenly across all segments and include their consistent movement.
If the patient is overweight, it is obvious that the pressure on the spine increases. And this can be extremely dangerous. Therefore, it is necessary to both reduce weight and strengthen muscles. Let’s figure out how to do this.
The body’s recovery after surgery can last up to one year. Age and lifestyle are of great importance in the adaptation period. Let’s consider the main stages of recovery.
In the first two weeks after surgery, medication and a course of procedures should reduce swelling and eliminate pain. You cannot sit or lift weights weighing more than 5 kg.
This stage of rehabilitation lasts from 2 to 6 weeks. The doctor prescribes rehabilitation measures for the patient in a medical center under the supervision of doctors. Specialists do not recommend staying in one position for a long time or overcooling the intervention area. Before playing sports, as permitted by the doctor, you should do warm-up exercises. You can lift weights of no more than 8 kg.
Recovery takes 6 weeks to 2 months. At this stage, the muscle corset is restored. Increased physical activity is prohibited; the patient is prescribed therapeutic massage, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and gymnastics.
Maintaining a healthy weight and following a proper diet is important to avoid worsening your condition. We will give you a few tips on how to act effectively and with maximum health benefits.
It is essential to be at a normal, healthy weight in order to recover faster and not provoke the appearance of a new hernia. Excess weight puts additional pressure on the abdominal wall. Losing excess weight will help you stay healthy and full of energy and prevent the development of diseases often caused by excess weight and obesity.
Refrain from lifting heavy objects during this challenging period for your body for the period recommended by your doctor (usually 6-8 weeks). Excessive physical activity increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can lead to suture divergence, hernia recurrence, or the formation of a postoperative ventral hernia.
Smoking interferes with your body’s ability to heal. So, if possible, give up this bad habit. The fact is that nicotine restricts blood flow and can increase the risk of infection around the incision. Also, smoking is often accompanied by a cough, which causes the abdominal muscles to tense up. And it is better to avoid this for adequate recovery after hernia surgery. After all, this constant pressure can lead to a very dangerous inguinal hernia.
Such a diet helps prevent constipation, which is a good chance to avoid hernia recurrence. Fiber in the diet also lowers cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Regular bowel movements and the absence of constipation are significant after surgery. After all, constipation can lead to excessive straining. Eat fruits and vegetables, and drink enough fluids.
It is essential to lead a healthy lifestyle. Of course, your doctor will list the acceptable activities for you. In general, it is recommended to remain physically active after hernia surgery. However, remember that some physical exercises can be harmful. Learn about the exercises that can aggravate or strengthen your abdominal muscles. Your doctor will likely allow you to do exercises that stretch your back muscles, improve your core, and do aerobic exercises like cycling or just walking outside. Avoid exercises that involve squats or jumping, which can increase pressure on the abdominal wall. Warm up properly to avoid tears or strains of the abdominal muscles.
Now you know how to recover from hernia surgery successfully. However, we urge you to always coordinate everything with your doctor. One thing is certain: it is important to maintain a normal, healthy weight. To speed up recovery and prevent recurrence of the disease. After all, excess weight puts increased stress on the abdominal wall and slows down healing. We offer a comprehensive approach to restoring health at Bariatric Surgical Center Tuscaloosa. Our minimally invasive bariatric procedures help achieve sustainable weight loss and significantly reduce the risk of hernia recurrence. We will help you choose the best method based on your medical history and goals. Schedule a consultation.
