Occupational rehabilitation following open mesh surgical repair of an inguinal hernia

Abstract

Background and Purpose. The purpose of this case report is to describe an occupational rehabilitation program for a person whose work-related inguinal hernia was surgically repaired. Case Description. A 35-year-old male baggage service attendant acquired an inguinal hernia while lifting at work. Postoperatively, the patient had discomfort in the groin, weakness of the lower extremities and trunk, limited ability to walk, and a decreased ability to work due to impaired lifting tolerance. Outcomes. Following postoperative rehabilitation, the patient was able to return to full-time, full-duty work. Discussion. This case report describes occupational rehabilitation as a method to treat patients with work-related inguinal hernias following surgical repair.