Evaluating lifting restrictions after inguinal hernia surgery

Activity Restrictions After Inguinal Hernia Repair

Not applicable Interventional VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System · NCT05867134

This study is testing if letting patients decide when to return to normal activities after inguinal hernia surgery helps them heal better and feel happier compared to following strict lifting restrictions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment200 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorVA Eastern Colorado Health Care System Federal
Locations1 site (Aurora, Colorado)
Trial IDNCT05867134 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to assess the impact of different lifting and physical activity restrictions following surgical repair of single-sided inguinal hernias. Patients will be randomized into two groups: one receiving standard care with specific activity restrictions and another allowed to return to activity as tolerated. The study will measure convalescence, surgical outcomes, complication rates, and quality of life through questionnaires and medical chart reviews. The goal is to determine if patients benefit from having autonomy in their recovery process.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with a clinical diagnosis of unilateral inguinal hernia who are scheduled for surgery and can provide consent.

Not a fit: Patients with bilateral or recurrent inguinal hernias or those undergoing additional surgical procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more personalized recovery protocols that enhance patient comfort and reduce recovery time.

How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored postoperative activity restrictions, this approach of allowing patient autonomy in recovery is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical diagnosis of unilateral inguinal hernia
* Must be undergoing surgery
* Must be able to consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Bilateral inguinal hernia
* Recurrent inguinal hernia
* Surgery scheduled with additional concomitant procedures

Where this trial is running

Aurora, Colorado

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Inguinal Herniahernia, recovery, surgery
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.