Hernia Repair

A hernia is a full thickness defect or hole within the abdominal wall, allowing the contents of the abdominal cavity to protrude outside of the confines of the abdomen. They are classified by location or causative factors (i.e. incisional, congenital).  They can occur in the groin (inguinal: direct vs indirect), anterior abdominal wall (ventral, umbilical) or through a previous surgical incision.

While hernia repair is a minimally invasive surgery, Vail Health Howard Head Sports Medicine works with Vail Health’s Hernia Center to provide strategies that help patients recover quickly and safely so they can get back to the activities they love.

During your pre-operative physical therapy appointment, we help you feel ready for your surgery by reviewing:

• Post- op restrictions
• Expectations for pain, return of prior function
• Exercises for proper muscle activation
• Mobility strategies (transferring in and out of bed, lifting)
• Proper breathing techniques
• Pressure management   

During your post-op treatment sessions, our therapists develop a custom rehabilitation plan with you including: goal setting based on your needs, progressions of exercise and treatment to help get you back to the activities you love, and encouragement for a positive outlook for healing.

How frequently will I come to PT? Typically patients come one time a week but this is individualized based on your needs and will be determined by your PT at your post-op appointment.  On average most patients discharge to a home exercise program after 3-5 visits when they demonstrate an understanding of pressure management and breathing techniques during functional activities.  

Appointments can be performed through Telehealth if you reside in the state of Colorado.