Post-Operative Care & Rehabilitation
The patient is monitored in the postoperative recovery room. A scrotal support is placed. Ice is applied to the groin. Laxatives are given. The patient is discharged to home after urinating. Dressings are removed that evening. The patient can shower at any time. The patient is warned about possible bruising and swelling. There are no dietary restrictions. A follow up appointment is arranged for one week.
Sports Hernia Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is an important part of healing process. I advise a six to nine week program that starts out with rest, then initiates progressive aerobic exercise, and then weights and speed. The body takes time to recover from surgery. Go slowly. A physical therapist or trainer can also be of great benefit.
6-9 Week Rehab Program
Post Operative – Weeks 1, 2, 3
- Gentle walking four times per day
- Gentle stretching
- Sex is OK
Post Operative – Weeks 4, 5, 6
- Jogging and gentle running in straight lines
- Gentle sit-ups with the knees bent
- Step ups
- Aerobic exercises
- Swimming
Post Operative – Weeks 7, 8, 9
- Sprints
- Weights
- Play your sport as the strength returns
Notes
- In the first six weeks, exercise only within limits of mild pain.
- Listen to your body; if you are having pain stop.
- Stiffness and discomfort will occur after vigorous exercise for about nine weeks.
- The pain is usually at the operative site, but pain in the abdominal wall and the adductor tendon insertion is common.
- There will be a hard swelling at the operative site for about nine weeks. This is part of the natural healing process.
- Most athletes return to playing between nine and twelve weeks
Learn more about Dr. Brown’s approach to the treatment of sports hernias or contact Dr. Brown for additional information.