Hernia Treatment

Hiatal hernias are a type of hernia that affects the diaphragm.  A hernia is a word for what happens when the intestines push through some of the muscles or ligaments surrounding the abdominal cavity.  You can be born with a hernia or you can acquire a hernia after birth during any phase of life.  Sometimes the cause is unknown but often a hernia is caused by increased internal pressure from lifting or straining.  This can happen during sports activities, exercise, work activity, or sudden trauma.  Symptoms involving a hiatal hernia may include heartburn, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and indigestion.  Often hernias can be associated with weight gain and stress.  Other types of hernias include:

• Hiatal hernia
• Inguinal hernia
• Epigastric hernia
• Umbilical hernia

Treatment

Chiropractic treatment for a hiatal hernia involves adjustments to the thoracic spine and rib cage to relax the diaphragm along with a special form of massage that loosens the hernia from its location.  This usually involves a gentle pulling down in the stomach area.  Home care should include exercises that encourage the hernia to release from the diaphragm.