How to Lift After Hernia & Gallbladder Surgery

Hernia repair and gall bladder removal both require abdominal surgery, and doctors usually restrict or ban lifting after these procedures. Recovery from either operation typically ranges from one to six weeks, according to the American College of Surgeons. Follow the advice of your physician after hernia repair (herniorrhaphy) or gall-bladder removal (cholecystectomy), and avoid lifting heavy objects until pain or discomfort are no longer present. Once the doctor OKs lifting, use proper techniques to minimize the risk of further injury to the abdomen or back.

Instructions

Proper Lifting Techniques

• 1

  Before lifting a heavy object, the National Safety Council recommends an assessment to determine whether you can lift it alone, how high you have to lift it, and how far you must carry it. Ask for assistance from a co-worker, friend or family member if you believe you cannot safety lift and carry the object by yourself. Use a dolly whenever possible.

• 2

  Use your entire hands, not just your fingertips, to grasp the object. Draw the object near you with your elbows close to your body. This keeps the load and your body weight centered, the National Safety Council says.

• 3

  Keep your body facing the object without twisting your back. Do not reach out to lift or raise the object above your head, and don't let it block your vision.

• 4

  Use deliberate and slow movements. Point your feet in the direction you plan to move so you won't have to twist your body.

• 5

  Use your legs to handle most of the lifting. Bend at the knees and push up from the waist, keeping your back straight and stomach muscles tight.

• 6

  Squat to set the load down gently while maintaining the natural curvature of your spine.