January is the time most people focus on ramping up their workout routine. However, for those living with a hernia, they need to be careful not to aggravate the condition.
Working out when you have a hernia can be both painful and dangerous. Here, we’ll look at whether it is safe to exercise with a hernia, and the key things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Is it safe to exercise with a hernia?
While caution should be taken, it can be safe to exercise with a hernia. However, there are certain exercises that should be avoided. Understanding which exercises you should avoid is key to working out safely.
Another thing to keep in mind is that it is advisable to work out under the guidance of an accredited physiotherapist or qualified personal trainer. They will be able to show you which exercises are safe.
Generally speaking, the following exercises should be avoided:
- Crunches and other core exercises
- Contact sports
- Heavy lifting exercises
The above exercises can put extra pressure onto the abdomen, causing the hernia to worsen. So, it’s important to focus on exercises that produce low intra-abdominal pressure.
Understanding the different types of hernias
Another thing that affects the exercise you should do is the type of hernia you have. There are six main types but the most common is the Inguinal hernia. It is estimated that around 25% of men will suffer from this type of hernia in their lifetime. It occurs in the groin area.
Femoral hernias are less common and mostly develop in women. They also occur in the groin and they can be a cause for concern due to the high chances of bowel strangulation. Exercising with this type of hernia can be dangerous so it is advised patients undergo surgery to remove it before partaking in a workout routine.
It is important to establish what type of hernia you are dealing with before you come up with an exercise plan.
Tips for working out with a hernia
There are some tips you can follow to ensure your safety when exercising with a hernia. Avoiding the exercises mentioned earlier is the first thing to remember. The main exercises you should focus on include things like aerobic exercise, glute bridges and postural strengthening exercises.
Making sure you don’t overdo it is also essential. You should take it easier on yourself until the hernia has been repaired.
Unfortunately, there is always a risk that hernias will worsen when you start working out. Therefore, it is advised that patients seek treatment for their hernia prior to heavy exercise. This is the only way to guarantee your safety.
Book a consultation today to see which treatment plan would be best to eliminate your hernia.
