21 august 2024 : Participation in physical exercise, particularly strength training such as weightlifting, may increase the likelihood of developing an inguinal hernia, which occurs in the groin region and is often observed in men between the ages of 25 and 35. Experts have noted a concerning 20% increase in this trend among gym enthusiasts.
Concealed Risks in the Gym:
It is crucial to perform warm-up exercises prior to engaging in weightlifting, avoid lifting excessively heavy weights, bend at the knees rather than the waist, and cease activity if experiencing severe pain. An inguinal hernia, characterized as a groin hernia, typically arises when abdominal tissue protrudes through the lower abdominal wall into the groin, resulting in significant discomfort. Symptoms of this condition include a sensation of pressure or heaviness in the groin, abdominal pain, and severe pain during weightlifting.
Men Aged 25-35 at Increased Risk:
In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Lakin Vira, a Laparoscopic and General Surgeon at Apollo Spectra in Mumbai, stated, “Factors contributing to this hernia include prolonged standing, chronic coughing and sneezing, and straining during urination or defecation, as well as pregnancy and obesity. Notably, there has been a 20% increase in inguinal hernia cases among adults aged 25-35, with 3 to 4 out of 10 individuals developing hernias as a result of lifting heavy weights in the gym.”
Dr. Hemant Patel, a Laparoscopic and General Surgeon at Zynova Shalby Hospital in Mumbai, stated, “The increasing trend of weight lifting in gyms has resulted in a rise in hernia cases among adults. Inadequate lifting techniques and the use of excessive weights can predispose individuals to injuries such as hernias, particularly inguinal hernias, which occur when abdominal contents protrude through weakened areas. Many individuals at the gym neglect the importance of core stability and proper lifting form. There has been approximately a 15% increase in hernias among adults aged 25-35 due to improper lifting of heavy weights. Among 7-12 patients, a significant number are diagnosed with hernias as a result of lifting excessive weights. It is crucial to perform weightlifting correctly, ideally under the guidance of a fitness professional. One should remain cautious while engaging in any strenuous activities at the gym.”
Precaution tips:
Emphasizing the necessity of exercising caution while lifting weights, he recommended, “It is vital for gym enthusiasts to adequately warm up prior to strength training and to ensure that they bend at the waist rather than the knees during weight lifting. Avoid rushing through lifts, utilize a weight belt, strengthen your abdominal muscles, refrain from lifting excessively heavy weights, and cease immediately if pain occurs. In cases of severe pain, surgical intervention may be required for inguinal hernia repair to reposition the bulge and reinforce the weakened abdominal wall. Laparoscopic surgery is also an option available to provide relief to patients.”