Umbilical hernia

RWayne48

help - I've got an umbilical hernia - any one have experience with one? what should I expect from surgery/recovery, etc. any advice?
The doc told me "don't do anything stupid" when I asked about restrictions-not very helpful - what I've read online is not lifting anything heavier than a gallon of milk, are there other restrictions I should be aware of? I have lightened my core workouts and weights to 3-5 lbs, and although I wanted to start a more intense cardio for the new year I've kept it to brisk walks
Thanks

amyk0202

I just had an umbilical hernia repair in October. For about a year prior to that I was unable to use my abs for anything--it was just too painful. Now, I can actually do everything again & it's great. I'm having to break myself of the habit of rolling out of bed to avoid sitting up & using my arms to get out of a chair. I was not supposed to lift more than 10 lbs or use my core muscles for 6 weeks after the surgery. I ended up with an infection & seroma (I'm prone to getting seromas with any surgery), so my recovery was longer.

Recovery was not very painful. I took 1 pain pill the day of surgery mostly because I was afraid it would be painful to sleep, but after that I switched to Tylenol. I slept in a recliner so I wouldn't have to use my abs to turn over in bed. Plus my bed is high & I'm short & need a step stool to climb up.

Right after the surgery I still had a rather large lump & was very worried that the repair wasn't correct. My surgeon said it was scar tissue & that it would go away. He was right, it is now gone.

Honestly, I would stick to walking after surgery & only after the surgeon says it's ok. There is a risk of popping those stitches & the hernia coming back. Just get enough protein in & eat at maintenance to promote healing & worry about your workouts later.

RWayne48

Amyk0202-Thanks for the info-good to hear what it's like from someone who's been through it - I like the recliner idea for sleeping.
I hate being on the injured reserve list and not able to do things for myself - 6 weeks is a long time to be recovering! Looking forward to getting it corrected and being back on my feet (although this does get me out of shoveling when the snow finally comes)