All About Hernias

If your body has ever tried to play a game of “hide and seek” with your intestines, you might have a hernia. While it’s not the most fun surprise, the good news is that help is available. Call The Osteopath on 07 5451 1599 to book an appointment and see how an osteopath may support your recovery.

When your insides try to make a break for it

A hernia occurs when an internal structure, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. They can develop in different areas of the body, but two of the most common types are inguinal hernias and femoral hernias.

• Inguinal hernias are far more common in men. They occur when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue protrudes through the inguinal canal in the lower abdomen. This type of hernia may cause a noticeable bulge in the groin area, discomfort when lifting objects, or a heavy sensation in the lower abdomen.
• Femoral hernias are more common in women due to differences in pelvic anatomy. These hernias appear lower down than inguinal hernias, near the upper thigh, and can be mistaken for swollen lymph nodes. Though less common, femoral hernias carry a higher risk of complications, such as strangulation (where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off), making early assessment essential.

Both types of hernias can cause:

• A visible or palpable lump that may disappear when lying down.
• Discomfort or pain, particularly when coughing, straining, or lifting.
• A feeling of weakness or pressure in the affected area.

Hernias may develop due to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, chronic coughing, frequent heavy lifting, pregnancy, or previous surgery that has weakened the abdominal wall.

If you’ve already got a hernia, you’re probably more interested in stopping it from getting worse than preventing a new one – but our advice is same either way… The key is to reduce strain on your abdominal wall. That means avoiding heavy lifting (or using great technique), keeping your core muscles strong, and eating plenty of fibre to prevent constipation. If you smoke, quitting can also help, as that chronic coughing puts extra pressure on the area. It’s all about giving your body the best chance to keep everything where it belongs.

While surgery is often necessary for hernia repair, an osteopath can play a role in symptom management and post-surgical rehabilitation. Osteopathic care focuses on:

• Reducing strain on the body – Techniques that improve posture and core strength can help relieve excess pressure on the abdominal wall, potentially slowing the progression of a hernia and minimising discomfort.
• Supporting recovery – After hernia surgery, osteopathy may assist in improving mobility, reducing scar tissue adhesions, and restoring balance to the surrounding muscles.
• Addressing underlying mechanical factors – Poor posture, weak core muscles, or restricted hip mobility can contribute to hernia risk. Osteopaths assess and address these issues to support long-term musculoskeletal health.

If you suspect you have a hernia, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. To discuss how osteopathy may support your recovery, call The Osteopath on 07 5451 1599 to book an appointment.

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Information provided here (including text, graphics, images, outbound links, and other material) is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and is not to be used or considered as a substitute for personalised professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified allied health provider regarding any symptoms, medical conditions, or treatments and before undertaking any new health care regimen.