Recovering from surgery for an incisional hernia and diastasis recti requires more than just waiting for the incision to heal. To fully restore your strength and protect your repair, you need a targeted rehabilitation plan that supports your core while preventing re-injury. Post-surgery rehab isn’t about rushing into workouts—it’s about rebuilding stability from the inside out with safe movements, gradual progression, and the right support tools like the best splints for combined incisional hernia and diastasis.
Why Post-Surgery Rehab Is Essential
Surgery repairs structural weaknesses, but it doesn’t automatically restore muscle strength, connective tissue integrity, or proper movement patterns. Without rehab, there’s a higher risk of:
- Re-injury or recurrence of the hernia
- Persistent diastasis recti symptoms
- Core instability and back pain
- Difficulty returning to normal activities
A structured plan combines protection, gentle strengthening, and education on safe body mechanics.
The First Weeks After Surgery
During the first 2–6 weeks, your focus is on healing the incision and minimizing strain:
- Follow your surgeon’s guidelines on lifting restrictions.
- Use a splint for support during daily movements.
- Prioritize rest, but avoid prolonged bed rest to prevent stiffness.
- Walk short distances to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
This is also the time to learn proper movement patterns that will protect your repair long-term.
Safe Movements and Techniques
Learning to move without putting excess pressure on your abdominal wall is key. Techniques include:
- Rolling to your side before sitting up (log roll method)
- Exhaling while engaging the transverse abdominis before lifting or standing
- Bending at the hips and knees rather than rounding the spine
These habits are just as important as exercise in preventing re-injury.
The Role of Splinting in Recovery
A well-fitted splint helps protect the surgical site while supporting midline muscle alignment. For optimal results:
- Wear the splint during active hours, especially when lifting or bending.
- Adjust compression to avoid discomfort at the incision site.
- Combine splinting with non-surgical options for incisional hernia and diastasis like safe exercises and lifestyle changes.
Breathing and Core Engagement
Many people unknowingly hold their breath or strain when moving after surgery. Learning diaphragmatic breathing helps:
- Reduce intra-abdominal pressure
- Engage the deep core without strain
- Promote relaxation and healing
Practice slow inhales through the nose, expanding the ribcage, and controlled exhales while drawing the belly gently toward the spine.
Progressing to Gentle Core Exercises
Once your surgeon clears you for exercise, begin with gentle, transverse-focused movements such as:
- Seated or lying abdominal compressions
- Heel slides with core engagement
- Modified side planks (once strength improves)
Always perform exercises while wearing your splint in the early stages. Later, as stability improves, you can transition to working without it for short periods.
Lifestyle Adjustments During Recovery
Support your recovery by:
- Maintaining a healthy diet to avoid weight gain and constipation
- Staying hydrated to keep tissues healthy
- Avoiding sudden twisting or bending movements
What to Avoid in the Early Stages
- Heavy lifting before clearance
- Traditional crunches or sit-ups
- Holding your breath during exertion
- Ignoring pain or swelling at the incision site
Your Next Steps
Post-surgery rehab is your bridge between healing and returning to a full, active life. Combining splinting, safe movements, and progressive core strengthening will protect your repair and improve your function for years to come.
Continue learning with these related articles:
- Best splints for combined incisional hernia and diastasis
- Exercises safe after incisional hernia and diastasis
- Non-surgical options for incisional hernia and diastasis
