Hernia surgery repairs a weakness in the abdominal wall. While rest is part of healing, movement, especially walking, facilitates a smoother recovery. Understanding when and how to incorporate activity can positively influence the healing process after hernia repair.
The Role of Movement in Healing
Early, gentle movement after hernia surgery offers several physiological advantages. Walking improves blood circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to healing tissues. This increased blood flow helps prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots that can form due to immobility.
Movement also reduces post-operative swelling. Walking gently compresses muscles, helping fluids drain from the surgical area. Early mobilization stimulates the gastrointestinal tract, promoting bowel function and alleviating constipation, a frequent issue after surgery due to anesthesia and pain medication.
Engaging in gentle activity prevents muscle stiffness and weakness. It maintains muscle tone and overall physical function, supporting a gradual return to normal activities. This controlled movement aids healing without placing undue strain on the repaired area.
Starting and Progressing Your Walking Regimen
A walking regimen typically begins soon after hernia surgery. Many patients are encouraged to walk gently within hours or a day or two, once comfortable and medically cleared. The initial approach involves short, frequent walks, such as 5 to 15 minutes a couple of times daily.
Gradually increase the duration and frequency of walks as your body allows, listening to physical cues. Avoid overexertion, as pushing too hard can hinder healing or cause setbacks. Maintain good posture, keeping your back straight and avoiding hunching, to minimize abdominal strain.
Choose a safe environment for walking, such as flat, stable surfaces, to prevent falls. Wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes for ease of movement. While short walks are beneficial, avoid heavy lifting, straining, or high-impact activities like jogging or cycling for several weeks (often 4 to 6 weeks), or until cleared by a healthcare provider.
Identifying Concerns and When to Contact Your Doctor
While some discomfort is expected after hernia surgery, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. These include increasing or severe incision pain not relieved by medication, or a persistent fever above 38°C (101°F), which could indicate infection.
Other signs of complications include unusual redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, or bleeding from the wound. Persistent nausea or vomiting making it difficult to keep fluids down also requires medical evaluation. Leg symptoms like pain, tenderness, swelling, warmth, or discoloration in the calf or thigh can indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Shortness of breath, chest pain worsening with deep breaths, or coughing up blood could signal a pulmonary embolism, requiring emergency care. Report difficulty passing urine, stools, or gas for an extended period. If stitches appear loose or the incision begins to open, contact a healthcare provider immediately.