Ask the Experts - Inguinal Hernias and Physical Strain
Ask the Experts - Inguinal Hernias and Physical Strain
Please discuss the risk of developing an inguinal hernia after physical strain.
Dr. R. Lafrance
In the 1900s, Cooper recognized that inguinal hernias were not simply caused by the mechanical strain of physical activities. He considered hereditary and debility factors to have adverse effects onthe strength of the abdominal wall. In 1922, Harrison questioned the effect of physical activity as a cause of inguinal hernia by stating, "When we consider the dozens and hundreds of men who first show hernias at 50-60 after their active lives are over, the hypothesis becomes improbable to say the least." Today, an understanding of the role of the protease-antiprotease imbalance in the pathogenesis of groin hernias has shed new light on the pathology of groin hernias and the causes of failure of herniorrhaphies. There is a growing body of evidence that adult male inguinal hernias are associated withimpaired collagen metabolism and weakening of the fibroconnective tissue of the groin. Currently, physical activity is only considered a secondary or triggering factor in the development of inguinal hernias.
Please discuss the risk of developing an inguinal hernia after physical strain.
Dr. R. Lafrance
In the 1900s, Cooper recognized that inguinal hernias were not simply caused by the mechanical strain of physical activities. He considered hereditary and debility factors to have adverse effects onthe strength of the abdominal wall. In 1922, Harrison questioned the effect of physical activity as a cause of inguinal hernia by stating, "When we consider the dozens and hundreds of men who first show hernias at 50-60 after their active lives are over, the hypothesis becomes improbable to say the least." Today, an understanding of the role of the protease-antiprotease imbalance in the pathogenesis of groin hernias has shed new light on the pathology of groin hernias and the causes of failure of herniorrhaphies. There is a growing body of evidence that adult male inguinal hernias are associated withimpaired collagen metabolism and weakening of the fibroconnective tissue of the groin. Currently, physical activity is only considered a secondary or triggering factor in the development of inguinal hernias.
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