Inguinal Hernia

By Alex Bigale, PTA

What Is An Inguinal Hernia?

The quick answer, an Inguinal Hernia, occurs when part of the intestines or fat protrudes through a hole, tear, or weakened portion of the lower abdominal wall, more specifically near the groin or inguinal region. This disorder commonly occurs in men more than women. Two types of inguinal hernias occur: indirect and direct.

Indirect Inguinal Hernia

Occurs when there is a deficiency in the abdominal wall (usually congenital or present at birth) that allows for the protrusion of inguinal contents through the abdominal wall.

Direct Inguinal Hernia

This occurs when a defect in the abdominal wall builds over time due to muscle weakness. Any activity that causes increased intra-abdominal pressure can lead to the formation of a hernia.

*Indirect hernias are the cause of most hernias in smaller children, but adult males typically fall into the category of direct inguinal hernias.*

Signs and Symptoms of An Inguinal Hernia

Adults:

• Bulging on the side of the pubic bone becomes more prominent with prolonged standing.
• Pain or burning in the region can intensify with bending, lifting, or straining.
• For men, possible pain/swelling of the testes if the hernia protruded through the scrotum.
• A heavy or weak feeling in the inguinal (lower abdominal region)
• Pain with coughing or sneezing.

Children:

• Protrusion of the hernia with crying, coughing or straining when having a bowel movement.
• Prolonged standing can cause protrusion in older children.

When Can An Inguinal Hernia Become Dangerous?

An inguinal hernia itself is not a life-threatening condition, but can become dangerous if the contents of the hernia are not put back into the abdomen. If part of the intestine becomes trapped in the abdominal wall or scrotum, incarceration of the intestine/fat occurs. If the hernia is incarcerated for a prolonged period of time, the blood flow to that portion of the small intestine can become blocked and cause that section of the intestine to die. This strangulation of the hernia/intestine is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.

Treatment of An Inguinal Hernia

Once an inguinal hernia is diagnosed via physical exam, x-ray, or MRI, the only treatment to fix the hernia is surgical repair. There are two main types of surgical repair: open hernia repair and laparoscopic repair.

Open Hernia Repair:

During this surgical procedure, an incision is made in the groin and the surgeon pushes the hernia back into place. The surgeon will then repair the abdominal wall and place a synthetic mesh over the area for reinforcement. The incision will need stitches, staples, or surgical glue.

Laparoscopic Repair:

For this procedure, the surgeon uses several small incisions to complete the surgery. Sometimes the surgeon will choose to pump gas into the abdominal cavity to make the hernia easier to work on. Using a small camera, the surgeon will put the hernia back in place and use a synthetic mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall. These approximately ½ inch incisions require stitches, staples, or surgical glue.

After either type of surgical repair, the patient will experience discomfort in the abdomen and may need to use pain medication. Typically the patient should not be lifting heavy objects or participate in intense activities for several weeks to allow everything to heal properly. Patients who elect the laparoscopic repair usually heal faster and have less discomfort. However, they may be at a greater risk for the hernia to return than those who elect the open repair.

JOI Rehab

JOI Rehab clinicians can certainly help you after surgery for a hernia.  Not all patients need therapy after surgery.  We are here if you need us for general strengthening and core exercises.

Finally, if you are having pain and think it might be associated with an Inguinal Hernia, seek medical advise from a physician.  Often, some groin strains can act like a hernia and vice versa.  It is important to know which injury you have.

Related Article: Groin Strains, Adductor Strain,  and Hip and Groin Pain in Athletes. 

JOI Fracture and Injury Care Services

Call 904-JOI-2000 to book your appointment today!

By: Alex Bigale, PTA