Hernias

There are two different kinds of inguinal hernias to consider:

Direct -  Increased intra-abdominal pressure (internal pressure on the abdominal wall generated from straining) that causes a rupture in the abdominal wall musculature through which the intestine may bulge.  Surgery is generally required to repair this injury.  Rehabilitation and proper counseling on lifting techniques is a must in order to prevent reoccurrence.

Indirect -  Increased intra-abdominal pressure (internal pressure on the abdominal wall generated from straining) that causes the intestine to bulge through the inguinal canal.  This is often the result of developmental defect in the closure of the canal and is the common hernia type that occurs in men.  Surgery is generally required to repair this injury.  Rehabilitation and proper counseling on lifting techniques is a must in order to prevent reoccurrence.

Another type of hernia that is common is a hiatal hernia. In this type of hernia part of the stomach pushes up through the passageway in the diaphragm that the esophagus passes through. This strangulates the stomach and can cause gastro-esohpageal reflux and severe heart-burn.