Hernias. (They're apparently really common.)

[BigClive]

Well I never thought I'd end up with a hernia! It turns out that it's really common.

On a plus note the surgery was easy in the sense that when they give you the anaesthetic you literally go out like a light and don't remember anything at all between going out and being woken back up again. In my case it was classed as day-surgery and I was home the same day.

The ward I was put in was ALL men having hernia ops.

Anyone else had one? And what was your recovery like?

I've had lots of warnings not to lift heavy stuff for a while even when I think it's all healed up.

[Orgnizdlbr]

My friend just had one done the other day, same day surgery like you. He attended a Christmas party the same evening. Happy Boxing Day Clive!

[BigClive]

Some can be done with very minimist keyhole surgery. Mine definitely wasn't. There's a good 5" scar along my abdomen.
It's been an interesting experience in many ways.

[rob8210]

I have never had a hernia (knocking on wood) but I am dealing with sciatica right now. Not much fun. It laid me in bed for over a week , so far. They told me there is no quick cure , just rest and maybe pain killers. Sounds like a hernia might be less annoying!

[Orgnizdlbr]

Been there Rob, had it on and off for over 30 years. Bed rest at first then, for me, walking once able. Weather permitting, I walk 5 miles every other day and it really helps my back.

[rob8210]

Well Labour, I have been very surprised by how many people I have talked to that’s had sciatica, it’s way more common than I knew. Worst pain I have ever had. I forced myself to get up , then I slowly started taking a few steps. I am up and walking about a mile or so a couple of times a day with not much pain. I guess I am gonna have to treat my 57 year old body with a lot more respect. Up until now I have been still working like I am 30, still in a bucket everyday. The last job was a voltage conversion from 4kv box to 13.8kv armless.

[Orgnizdlbr]

Good luck with the sciatica Rob, walking really helps me.

[BigClive]

I think back issues at the base of the spine are pretty common for people who pay their way in society.

Several years ago I decided to stand wherever possible and rarely sit down in the house. Everything like my computer and workbench are at a good height for standing at.
Takes a bit of getting used to, but I think it takes a lot of strain off the back caused by sitting.

[rob8210]

I think you are probably right, Clive. I recall some years ago when I worked for a utility, the safety association came around doing back fitness assessments. A certain fella was declared to have the fittest back in the utility, with good reason, he stayed as far away from work as a person could possibly do!