Can I exercise if I have an umbilical hernia?

You can exercise if you have a hernia. The key is focusing on exercises that won’t strain the area where your hernia is located. For abdominal hernias, this means exercises or lifting routines that involve straining or pulling in the abdominal area are not recommended.

What can you do for an umbilical hernia while pregnant?

You might need minor laparoscopic surgery with small incisions to fix it. Less-severe cases can wait until after birth, but your doctor may also perform surgery during pregnancy (usually in the second trimester). You can also surgically repair an umbilical hernia during a C-section.

What exercises should I avoid with an umbilical hernia?

Exercises to avoid include:

Some core exercises such as crunches, planks, sit-ups and some more advanced Pilates exercises.
Heavy lifting, such as high intensity deadlifts and squats.
Contact sports or high impact physical activities.

What should I avoid if I have a hernia?

If you have a hernia, try to keep it from getting worse:

Avoid heavy lifting when you can. Lifting puts stress on the groin.
When you must lift, don’t bend over. Lift objects by using the legs, not the back.
Eat high-fiber foods and drink plenty of water.
Maintain a healthy body weight.

What’s the best way to exercise with an umbilical hernia?

If you feel uncomfortable walking or want to do additional cardio exercise, you can do simple leg movements that don’t strain your abdomen. Leg straightens are an easy way to do this in your bed or a chair. Step 1: Sit at the edge of your bed or on a chair where your feet can easily rest on the floor.

When to do abdominal exercises after abdominal hernia surgery?

Before you do any exercises for abdominal hernia, consult your doctor. Many of these exercises are best performed when recovering from hernia surgery at the direction of a physical therapist or doctor. Step 1: Sit down and come to the edge of the chair. Step 2: Activate your core muscles.

When to have an umbilical hernia surgery during pregnancy?

Most OB-GYNs recommend waiting until the second trimester of pregnancy for this surgery if it’s not needed urgently. In other cases, your OB may fix the hernia while you’re delivering your baby via C-section. After surgery for an umbilical hernia, remember to avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds for up to 6 weeks.

Can you walk after an umbilical hernia surgery?

After any kind of hernia, walking can help keep your muscles strong and help reduce your risk of complications. This is especially true of surgeries on your abdomen. Walking helps your organs return to their proper place. It also gets your heart pumping, bringing blood to your surgery site, which helps your body heal.