As a trusted hernia specialist, Dr. Gregory Dumanian is the best source of information for questions about preparing for hernia repair and recovering from it. Many hernia repair patients, especially those that are active and/or work out regularly, ask when they can resume exercising after hernia repair.
In general, patients should wait until Dr. Dumanian clears them to resume their exercise routines. Working out too strenuously too soon after surgery could affect the healing process and cause a complication.
Read on as Dr. Dumanian shares “dos” and “dont’s” for exercising after hernia repair.
Do go for walks if you can do so comfortably. Short, slow walks are a good way to get your muscles moving after surgery. As soon as you feel ready, start going for leisurely walks around your neighborhood or on a treadmill at the gym. Slowly build up the pace and length of your walks as feels comfortable to you.
Do focus on core strengthening once cleared by Dr. Dumanian. Abdominal hernia repair disrupts the abdominal muscles and tissues, and they must have time to adequately heal after surgery. But once you’re ready, core strengthening exercises are helpful for building up abdominal strength. Once Dr. Dumanian gives you the go-ahead, you can start incorporating gentle abdominal exercises, such as planks, into your routine. You will probably be cleared around the six- to 12-week mark after surgery.
Do focus on non-impact exercises such as biking, swimming and elliptical training between three and six months. Elevating your heart rate will have numerous good effects for your health, and these exercises will help you regain tone in your abdominal wall.
Do go at your own pace (not anyone else’s). You know your normal fitness level and how much you exercised before surgery. If you feel comfortable walking a few miles a day, go for it. If you didn’t exercise much before surgery, don’t feel pressured to start with a new routine after surgery.
Don’t engage in strenuous or impact exercises for at least three to six months. Avoid jumping up and down, running or performing any other physical activity that involves bouncing, lifting or straining. This could lead to a serious complication.
Don’t push yourself. If something feels uncomfortable or painful while exercising, dial back the intensity or length of the workout.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Dumanian with more specific questions. If you are curious when you can resume a certain type of exercise, or if you are experiencing a certain sensation or symptom when you exercise, Dr. Dumanian is always here to answer your questions.
Please contact our office at (312) 695-6022 if you need to get in touch with the doctor.