Can hiatal hernia cause upper back pain? Discover the types of hiatal hernias, their symptoms, and surgical repair options in this comprehensive guide.

Understanding Hiatal Hernias: Types and Symptoms

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through an opening in the diaphragm, called the hiatus. There are two main types of hiatal hernias: sliding and paraesophageal.

Sliding hiatal hernias are the more common type, where the stomach and lower part of the esophagus slide up into the chest through the hiatus. These are often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can affect up to 1 in 4 adults by the age of 40.

Paraesophageal hernias are less common but can be more problematic. In this type, the stomach pushes up next to the esophagus, and while some may not cause any symptoms, others can lead to chest pain, upper abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing.

Can Hiatal Hernias Cause Upper Back Pain?

Sliding hiatal hernias are not typically associated with upper back pain. The most common symptoms of sliding hiatal hernias are related to GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux.

However, a large paraesophageal hernia could potentially cause upper back pain in some cases. The herniated stomach may put pressure on the diaphragm or surrounding structures, which could result in referred pain in the upper back area. But this is not a common symptom of paraesophageal hernias.

The primary symptoms of a paraesophageal hernia are usually chest pain, upper abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing. Back pain is not considered a typical presentation for this type of hernia.

Indications for Surgical Repair of Hiatal Hernias

Sliding hiatal hernias are often first treated with lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and medications to control GERD symptoms. Surgery may be recommended if these conservative measures are not effective.

Paraesophageal hernias, on the other hand, are generally repaired surgically, even if they are asymptomatic, as they carry a higher risk of complications like incarceration or ischemia (lack of blood supply).

Common symptoms that indicate the need for paraesophageal hernia repair include chest pain, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, and early or prolonged feeling of fullness after eating.

Surgical Techniques for Hiatal Hernia Repair

Most hiatal hernias, both sliding and paraesophageal, can be successfully repaired using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. This involves making several small incisions in the abdomen to access and repair the hernia.

The surgical team will reposition the stomach back into the abdomen and strengthen the diaphragmatic opening (hiatus) to prevent future herniation. In some cases, a mesh or other reinforcement may be used to further support the repair.

Laparoscopic repair is generally the preferred approach, as it is less invasive than open surgery and allows for faster recovery times for the patient.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you are experiencing any persistent or concerning symptoms, such as chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your condition and determine if further testing or treatment, including potential surgical intervention, is warranted.

While upper back pain is not a common symptom of hiatal hernias, the presence of this or any other unexplained symptoms should prompt a comprehensive medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate care.

Conclusion

In summary, while a large paraesophageal hernia could potentially cause upper back pain in some cases, this is not a typical symptom of hiatal hernias. The more common symptoms are related to GERD for sliding hiatal hernias and chest pain, upper abdominal pain, and swallowing difficulties for paraesophageal hernias.

If you have any concerns about hiatal hernias or unexplained upper back pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider who can thoroughly evaluate your condition and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

Paraesophageal Hernia (Hiatal Hernia) | Minimally Invasive and Gastrointestinal Surgery

What is a hiatal hernia?
Any time an internal body part pushes into an area where it doesn’t belong, it’s called a hernia. The hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm – the muscular wall separating the chest cavity from the abdomen. Normally, the esophagus goes through the hiatus and attaches to the stomach. In a hiatal hernia, the stomach bulges up into the chest through that opening. There are two main types of hiatal hernias: sliding and paraesophageal (next to the esophagus).

In a sliding hiatal hernia, the stomach and the section of the esophagus that joins the stomach slide up into the chest through the hiatus. This is the more common type of hernia. These sliding hiatal hernias are a risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and many patients with hiatal hernias suffer from GERD symptoms such as heartburn. Sliding hiatal hernias are very common and as many as more than 1 in 4 adults has one by the time they reach the age of 40.

The paraesophageal hernia is less common but is more cause for concern. In many patients, paraesophageal hernias may not cause any symptoms. These asymptomatic paraesophageal hernias can be safely observed and do not require surgery. When a paraesophageal hernia begins to cause symptoms (chest pain, upper abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing), these are usually repaired. Symptomatic paraesophageal hernias are at higher risk for progressing to incarceration (stomach gets stuck resulting in obstruction) or ischemia (blood supply to the stomach is cut off) resulting in the need for emergency surgery.

When should a sliding hiatal hernia be repaired?
Hiatal hernias are known to contribute to GERD. When diet, lifestyle modifications (lose weight, don’t eat late at night, sleep upright), and acid reduction medications fail to adequately control symptoms, hiatal hernia repair may be indicated. See our web page on GERD for more information.

When should a paraesophageal hernia be repaired?
In general, all paraesophageal hernias causing symptoms should be repaired.  Common symptoms from a paraesophageal hernia include:

• Chest pain—there are many causes for chest pain. It is important that patients who have a large paraesophageal hernia with chest pain undergo some kind of a cardiac evaluation to make sure that the chest pain is not from their heart. Typically, eating brings on chest pain from a paraesophageal hernia. Some patients have pain every time they eat, and others only experience discomfort every once in a while.
• Epigastric pain—this is pain in the middle, upper abdomen.
• Dysphagia—difficulty swallowing.
• Shortness of breath—in some very large paraesophageal hernias, the stomach may push on the diaphragm or compress the lungs contributing to a sensation of shortness of breath. There are many other reasons for shortness of breath in addition to a paraesophageal hernia.
• Early or prolonged satiety—Because the stomach is twisted or compressed due to the hernia, it may be difficult for patients to eat a normal sized meal. Patients may feel full for a very long time after eating, which is due to the fact that the stomach can’t empty normally when it is herniated. Some patients may lose weight because of difficulty eating.
• Stomach ulcer—in some patients with paraesophageal hernias, the stomach may twist upon itself resulting in a specific kind of stomach ulcer known as a Cameron’s erosion. These ulcers can occasionally contribute to chronic slow blood loss and anemia.

Many patients (but not all) with paraesophageal hernias may also suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms. GERD by itself is not a reason to repair a paraesophageal hernia. GERD is first treated with medications, and surgery is reserved for those who fail medical management.

For an in-depth discussion on whether a paraesophageal hernia should be repaired, please make an appointment with one of our surgeons.

Can a paraesophageal or a hiatal hernia cause pain in my back?
A sliding hiatal hernia will not cause back or epigastric pain like a paraesophageal hernia can. Sliding hiatal hernias can cause GERD symptoms. A very large paraesophageal hernia could potentially cause back pain, but this is not a common symptom. The most common pains related to a paraesophageal hernia are chest and epigastric (upper abdomen) pain, most often during or shortly following eating.

How are paraesophageal hernias repaired?
Almost all paraesophageal hernias can successfully and safely be repaired laparoscopically (with about 5 very small incisions) and through the abdomen (rather than the chest cavity). The laparoscopic repair of large paraesophageal hernias (most of the stomach resides above the diaphragm in the chest cavity) is a complex procedure and should only be attempted by expert laparoscopic surgeons with extensive experience in laparoscopic foregut surgery.

During surgery, the stomach is gradually moved back into the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm at the esophageal hiatus is closed to prevent the stomach from re-herniating. In some cases, a special kind of mesh is needed to close the diaphragm appropriately. Once the diaphragm has been closed, most patients undergo a fundoplication or a ‘wrap’ similar to what is done for a patient with GERD. The fundoplication is performed to help keep the stomach from herniating back into the chest cavity.

What are the results of paraesophageal hernia repair?
In the hands of experienced surgeons, the results of laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair are excellent. A minimally invasive laparoscopic approach results in significantly fewer complications than an open abdominal approach (many small incisions instead of one large incision in an open approach). Most patients are in the hospital for only 1-2 days and are back to their usual activities within 4 weeks.

Side effects can occur and are similar to those observed after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. Abdominal bloating can occur but is rarely severe. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) is another side effect that tends to improve in most patients with time – provided food is chewed thoroughly. The majority of patients are able to belch easily when necessary; especially once some time has passed following surgery.

For a more detailed discussion about the options, risks, and outcomes of paraesophageal hernia repair, and to determine if a patient is a candidate for a laparoscopic repair, please make an appointment with a fellowship trained minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgeon in the Division of Minimally Invasive and Gastrointestinal Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

“Elective Repair of Paraesophageal Hernia is Safe”

Hiatal Hernia and Back Pain – What is the relation

Our lifestyle today makes us do so much more than we do not want to spend time on ourselves. We often tend to ignore body pain, back pain, or headaches which can trigger other bigger issues. Back pain can be due to various reasons and is difficult to diagnose. One of the most common reasons for back pain can be a hiatal hernia – says health experts at Gut Care.

Back pain and hiatal hernia may happen at a time due to the location of the hernia, at the junction of the stomach and esophagus. A hernia occurs when the stomach protrudes a little upward and is unable to fit in properly.

When the stomach changes its position, the acid formed can also move upward. It causes heartburn which makes you feel very uncomfortable.

The most common hiatal hernia symptoms are:

Heartburn
● Regurgitation of food into the mouth
● Difficulty swallowing
● Backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus
● Abdominal pain or chest pain
● Shortness of breath
There can be pain in the chest and even go up to the back depending upon your condition. Therefore, if you notice these symptoms along with back pain for longer, consult the best hernia treatment doctors in Bangalore. Do not leave them untreated.

Factors that cause back pain along with hiatal hernia

Hernia must be treated immediately after you notice the symptoms because it might grow big and worse with time. Back pain, which includes pain in the lower back, is not only a symptom of a hiatal hernia. It can be due to other health conditions such as herniated disk or osteoarthritis.

The pain may not just be in a particular area, it can radiate to the hip, back, and legs. This can hinder your day-to-day activities. Back pain in the middle is less common than lower back pain.

Depending on the underlying cause and how severe the pain is, it may come up with some of the following symptoms.
● Muscle stiffness or tightness
● Numbness or tingling in the chest, belly, legs, or arms
● Chest pain
● Poor for controlling bowel or bladder

Back pain can be due to

Obesity: Obesity is the primary factor for different types of hernia, including hiatal hernia. And being overweight or obese can definitely lead to back pain.

Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain and chest pain can also affect your back as pain receptors work quickly in some people.

Heartburn: Heartburn is felt behind the breastbone, however, it could radiate elsewhere in the body such as the neck, throat, or even the back.

How to treat back pain and hiatal hernia?

Consult the hernia repair doctors for diagnosis especially if the symptoms are getting worse and home remedies are not helping. You can try some lifestyle changes that include:
● Take enough rest, especially when the pain flares up. But, it is also important to avoid strenuous exercise and excessive bed rest. Stay active but do not put a strain on your abdominal muscles.
● Avoid prolonged sitting that aggravates your pain. Practice the right posture to prevent body and muscle pain. Make sure you sit or stand properly so that your back will not get hurt.
● Maintain healthy body weight. Keeping your body healthy is crucial to prevent back pain and hernia from getting worse as well.
● Practice exercises that help strengthen the core and the structure of your back. Also, exercise is a great way to reduce overweight.
● Avoid eating foods that might cause heartburn or aggravate your hiatal hernia symptoms
● Quit smoking as it can hurt your esophagus.

There are a wide variety of treatment methods for back pain with hiatal hernia. Always consult the best hernia treatment doctors to understand the treatment options. You can book online consultations to talk to our experts at the Gut Care clinic and get permanent solutions to hernia problems immediately

Contact Us

1376 Views

Tags :abdominal pain,   back pain,   before a colonoscopy,   before and after colonoscopy,   best clinic in Bangalore,   best doctors in Bangalore,   best hernia doctors,   best hernia doctors in Bangalore,   best hernia doctors in Karnataka,   body pain,   chest pain,   factors that cause back pain,   headaches,   heartburn,   hernia,   hernia doctors,   hernia experts in Bangalore,   hernia surgery experts in Bangalore,   hernia surgery in Bangalore,   hernia surgery in Karnataka,   hernia surgery weight gain,   hernia treatment,   hernia treatment experts,   hernia treatment experts in Bangalore,   hernia treatment in Bangalore,   hiatal hernia,   hiatal hernia symptoms,   inguinal hernia surgery,   obesity,   relation,   top hernia doctors,   top hernia doctors in Bangalore,   top hernia doctors in Karnataka,   weight and hernia surgery

How to get rid of a diaphragmatic hernia: symptoms, causes, treatment

Contents

• 1 How to get rid of a diaphragmatic hernia: effective treatments
  • 1. 1 What is a diaphragmatic hernia?
  • 1.2 Symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia
  • 1.3 Causes of diaphragmatic hernia
  • 1.4 Diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia
  • 1.5 Treatment of diaphragmatic hernia: medical and surgical
    • 1.5.1 Medical treatment
    • 1.5.2 Surgical treatment
  • 1.6 Diet for diaphragmatic hernia
    • 1.6.1 What should be excluded from the diet?
    • 1.6.2 What can you eat?
    • 1.6.3 Which foods can be harmful?
  • 1.7 A set of exercises for the prevention of diaphragmatic hernia
  • 1.8 Methods for preventing diaphragmatic hernia
  • 1.9 Self-care tips for diaphragmatic hernia
    • 1.9.1 Nutrition
    • 1 .9.2 Exercise
    • 1.9.3 Avoid bending your body
    • 1.9.4 Take your medication
    • 1.9.5 Avoid bad habits
    • 1.9.6 Maintain a daily routine

  90 005 1.10 Consequences of diaphragmatic hernia

  • 1. 11 Latest treatment technologies Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair
    • 1.11.1 Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
    • 1.11.2 EndoCinch Treatment
    • 1.11.3 Stretch Treatment
  • 1.12 Related Videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are the symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia?
      • 1.13.0.2 What causes diaphragmatic hernia?
      • 1.13.0.3 What diagnosis is required to detect diaphragmatic hernia?
      • 1.13.0.4 What are the main treatments for diaphragmatic hernia?
      • 1.13.0.5 Can I exercise if I have a diaphragmatic hernia?
      • 1.13.0.6 What role does nutrition play in the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia?

Learn how to treat diaphragmatic hernia and get rid of its symptoms. Lifestyle advice, medical and surgical treatments. Information and recommendations from medical experts.

Diaphragmatic hernia is a disease that occurs when the upper part of the stomach passes through the diaphragm and travels into the chest cavity. Some people may experience symptoms associated with a diaphragmatic hernia, such as heartburn, abdominal pain, grumbling in the stomach, and difficulty swallowing.

Diaphragmatic hernia can have a variety of causes. This may be due to age, hernia, increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, or a deformity of the diaphragm due to trauma. A diaphragmatic hernia can be diagnosed using x-rays, endoscopy and other studies.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the symptoms, causes, and effective treatments for diaphragmatic hernia, to help those affected by the condition find health and comfort in their lives.

What is diaphragmatic hernia?

Diaphragmatic hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach rises into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscular partition between the chest cavity and the abdominal cavity. It plays an important role in the breathing process, separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

Diaphragmatic hernia is externally shaped like a ball, which is formed from the stomach and its contents. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including bitter taste in the mouth, heartburn, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, and other problems.

Causes of diaphragmatic hernia may include weakness of the diaphragm, increased abdominal pressure, and other factors. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery in some cases.

Diaphragmatic hernia symptoms

Diaphragmatic hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach rises into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. This can lead to discomfort and health problems.

In some cases, diaphragmatic hernia can cause difficulty breathing and coughing, especially during exercise. In rare cases, a closure of the stomach in the chest cavity can occur, which can lead to severe chest pain and severe nausea.

If you suspect any symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia, be sure to see a doctor. Early detection and treatment of this disease can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Causes of diaphragmatic hernia

Weakness of the diaphragm is the main factor contributing to the development of a hernia. The diaphragm is a muscular-aponeurotic septum that separates the chest and abdominal cavities. When it becomes not strong enough, as a result, protrusions of the stomach and other organs through the diaphragm into the chest cavity are possible.

Congenital anatomy can also cause diaphragmatic hernia. The small size of individual parts of the diaphragm or its incorrect position can contribute to the development of a hernia.

Increased pressure in the abdominal cavity due to excess weight, pregnancy, constant or sudden physical exertion, can also provoke the appearance of a herniated diaphragm.

Various types of trauma can also be the causes of a hernia. For example, a blow or fall on the stomach, surgical interventions in the abdominal cavity and chest, etc.

Aging and natural wear and tear of tissues can also lead to the development of a hernia. In addition, some diseases, such as cancer of the stomach or pancreas, may be accompanied by a herniated diaphragm.

Diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia

Diaphragmatic hernia is a complication of a complex disease that can affect anyone. The most basic and accurate diagnostic method is gastroscopy. With this method, the chest and abdominal cavities are examined by inserting a flexible tube equipped with a light guide.

If you notice signs of diaphragmatic hernia, consult a gastroenterologist who will conduct all the necessary tests. Based on the results obtained, a verdict will be issued and appropriate treatment will be prescribed.

Diaphragmatic hernia treatment: medical and surgical

Medical treatment

In the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia, the doctor may prescribe drugs to reduce the symptoms of the disease. These may include drugs that reduce the acidity of the stomach, such as a proton pump or antacids.

A preparation containing prokinetics may also be prescribed. They have a stimulating effect on the motility of the stomach and intestines, which can help relieve the symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia.

Surgical treatment

If medical treatment does not give the desired results, it may be decided to perform surgery. Surgical treatment of diaphragmatic hernia involves resuspension of the upper part of the stomach and restoration of the normal position of the diaphragm. This helps to prevent recurrence of the disease and reduce the risk of complications.

• One type of operation is Nissen fundoplication, an operation in which part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal opening of the diaphragm and fixed from there. This allows you to eliminate reflux and reduce the symptoms of a hernia.
• Another type of surgery is Laparoscopic Diaphragmatic Hernioplasty, in which the pink passages and part of the umbilical ring are corrected and strengthened to prevent the gastric hernia from protruding into the chest cavity. It is a less invasive procedure than the Nissen fundoplication and has fewer complications and less pain after surgery.

The final choice of treatment depends on the patient’s individual situation, health and disease level.

Diet for diaphragmatic hernia

What should be excluded from the diet?

If you have a diaphragmatic hernia, avoid spicy and fatty foods, fast food, strong alcohol, carbonated drinks and coffee from your diet. They increase the acidity of the stomach and can contribute to the formation of belching, which can worsen the patient’s condition.

What can you eat?

In case of diaphragmatic hernia, it is recommended to increase the amount of vegetables, fruits and grains in the diet. They are rich in fiber and contribute to the normalization of digestion. It is also recommended to consume low-fat dairy products, protein (fish, meat, eggs) and herbal teas, which can reduce inflammation and soreness in the area of ​​​​the hernia.

What foods can be harmful?

For diaphragmatic hernia, it is recommended to limit the intake of foods that increase the release of gastric juice, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, high-fat dairy products, buckwheat, wheat flour, carbonated drinks, chocolate. Such products can cause heartburn and worsen the patient’s condition.

Recommended productsRestrict intake

901 81

diaphragmatic hernia prevention

Diaphragmatic hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. It can cause various symptoms such as heartburn, belching, chest pains, and others. It is important to prevent the development of this disease through proper nutrition and exercise, as well as performing special exercises.

A set of exercises for the prevention of diaphragmatic hernia includes exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the diaphragm and abdominal muscles.

1. Diaphragm exercises:
   1. Breathing exercises, such as deep inhale-slow exhale exercise.
   2. Butterfly exercise, when you need to compress and relax the muscles of the diaphragm.
2. Abdominal exercises:
   1. Lying leg raise.
   2. A plank exercise in which you get into a push-up position, but do not bend your elbows and hold on to your legs and forearms or arms.
   3. Raise the body in the supine position.

In addition, you should pay attention to proper nutrition and eating habits, avoid overeating, alcohol and smoking, control weight and avoid excessive physical activity. These measures will help prevent diaphragmatic hernia and maintain the health of the diaphragm and stomach as a whole.

Ways to prevent diaphragmatic hernia

Proper nutrition and diet are important to prevent diaphragmatic hernia. It is necessary to monitor the amount of food consumed and not overeat. Particular attention should be paid to fatty and fried foods, hypothermia and overheating of the body.

It is also important to engage in regular exercise to strengthen the abdominal and abdominal muscles, which reduces the likelihood of diaphragmatic hernia. It is recommended to practice yoga or Pilates, as these sports help strengthen muscles.

Another important factor that helps prevent diaphragmatic hernia is the correct body position during sleep. It is recommended to sleep in the side position, as this position reduces the load on the stomach and diaphragm.

• Maintaining a proper diet
• Regular exercise to strengthen the abdominal muscles
• Proper sleep position

which will help to create an individual plan for the prevention of this disease.

Self-care tips for diaphragmatic hernia

Nutrition

If you have diaphragmatic hernia, it is recommended to eat small meals several times a day to avoid stomach overload. Spicy, fatty and acidic foods should also be excluded from the diet, as they can cause reflux and worsen the patient’s condition. The diet should be rich in fiber in order to speed up digestion and more complete elimination of ineffective products from the body.

Physical exercise

Diaphragmatic hernia treatment includes a set of physical exercises aimed at strengthening the abdominal muscles. It is recommended to practice yoga, Pilates or other sports that do not burden the spine and abdominal organs. However, it is necessary to monitor your condition and not perform exercises that cause discomfort.

Avoid tilting the body

In case of diaphragmatic hernia, it is not recommended to bend over, especially after eating. This can worsen reflux and cause pain in the chest area. It is better to spend time in an upright position, avoiding lying down immediately after eating.

Take your medications

For diaphragmatic hernia, it is recommended to take medications that reduce the production of stomach acid and improve bowel function. For example, prokinetics, antacids, and proton pump inhibitors. However, before taking any drug, you should consult your doctor.

Giving up bad habits

If you have a diaphragmatic hernia, you should completely stop smoking and drinking alcohol. These bad habits cause reflux, impair the functioning of the digestive system, and slow down the healing process.

Observe the daily routine

In diaphragmatic hernia, it is important to observe the daily routine, especially the time of eating. Eating should be regular and take place at the same time, so the stomach will be ready to work and digest food faster.

Consequences of diaphragmatic hernia

Diaphragmatic hernia can lead to serious complications and negatively affect the patient’s quality of life. In this case, the main cause of complications is reflux esophagitis, which occurs with congestion in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Reflux esophagitis can cause burns in the esophagus, leading to chest pain, stomach tightness, and belching.
• Damage to the esophagus can lead to a rare but very dangerous complication – the development of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus.
• Increased acidity in the stomach can lead to the formation of ulcers in the lining of the stomach or duodenum.
• Diaphragmatic hernia can lead to indigestion, resulting in impaired absorption of nutrients into the blood.

Therefore, it is important to seek medical help in a timely manner if you suspect a diaphragmatic hernia in order to avoid unpleasant consequences for a person’s health and life.

The latest technology in the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia

Laparoscopic hernia repair

Laparoscopic surgery is one of the most effective technologies for the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia, which allows the patient to quickly recover.

During laparoscopic hernia repair, small incisions, only a few millimeters in size, are made in the patient’s abdomen. The surgeon inserts a laparoscope, a small tube that includes a camera and instruments.

This innovative technology is less traumatic for the patient and has a lower risk of complications after surgery compared to traditional open hernia repair.

EndoCinch treatment

EndoCinch hernia repair technology is inserted through an endoscope, a thin flexible tube, into the stomach cavity through the patient’s mouth. The technique consists in using thin threads that fix the upper lobe of the stomach and the arch of the diaphragm, preventing more excess backflow to the intestines.

EndoCinch treatment is less invasive than laparoscopic hernia repair and has fewer dietary restrictions after surgery.

Treatment with stretching

Treatment of diaphragmatic hernia with stretching consists in using a system of breathing exercises.

Stretching can also take the form of physical therapy, special kinesiology therapy, and chiropractic-assisted treatment.

The stretching approach, although less invasive, takes longer to complete and results are not always guaranteed.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia?

The main symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia are: heartburn, vomiting, nausea, pain in the chest and abdomen, shortness of breath, frequent pain in the shoulders and neck. In more serious cases, bleeding and ulcers in the stomach may occur.

What causes diaphragmatic hernia?

Diaphragmatic hernia can occur due to various reasons, such as: obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, stomach disorders, chronic cough, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, participation in certain sports activities, etc.

What diagnosis is required to detect diaphragmatic hernia?

In most cases, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is required to detect diaphragmatic hernia. Additionally, gastrofibroscopy may be prescribed to assess the degree of damage to the stomach and examination for the presence of ulcers and bleeding.

What are the main treatments for diaphragmatic hernia?

The main treatments for diaphragmatic hernia are medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery. Drug therapy often includes drugs to combat heartburn and suppress gastric acidity. Lifestyle changes, such as breathing exercises and a healthy diet, can also reduce symptoms. In the most severe cases of diaphragmatic hernia, surgery may be required.

Can I exercise if I have a diaphragmatic hernia?

Yes, some physical exercises can help reduce the symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia, such as breathing exercises. However, before starting classes, it is recommended to consult a doctor and get detailed recommendations on exercises and training intensity.

What role does nutrition play in the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia?

Proper nutrition can greatly help in the treatment of diaphragmatic hernia. Some foods, such as coffee, alcohol, spicy and fatty foods, can aggravate symptoms and cause heartburn. It is recommended to eat lighter, low-fat and non-spicy meals, as well as often eat small meals and not eat before bed.

Back pain under the shoulder blade, in the interscapular region: causes and methods of treatment

The shoulder blades are two flat bones on each side of the upper back. These two bones are connected to the humerus. The scapula, humerus, together with the clavicle form the so-called shoulder girdle. Movement in the shoulder girdle is provided by muscles that receive innervation from the cervical plexus (cervical spine).

What is the cause of pain in the shoulder blade area?

Pain in the scapular area can be caused by muscle strain, incorrect posture, physiological stress, shoulder overload, injury, nerve compression, or lung disease.

Pain may appear in the right, left shoulder blade or between the shoulder blades.

So, pain in the area of ​​the right shoulder blade can appear with gallbladder stones, liver tumors, other diseases of the abdominal organs, appendicitis, salpingitis on the right (inflammation of the right fallopian tube), etc. Pain under the right shoulder blade can be caused by problems with the liver or right kidney (it is useful to clarify the level of this subscapular pain). It often hurts under the right shoulder blade in right-handers because this side of the chest and spine is more loaded.

Pain in the area of ​​the left shoulder blade can be reflected, ie in pathology, for example, of the large intestine, pathology of the spleen. The cause of pain under the left shoulder blade can also be intercostal neuralgia or referred pain in case of heart disease (pass an atherosclerotic test or an atherosclerotic test at the Center along with an ECG and a cardiologist’s transcript – a package with a discount). Increased pain under the left shoulder blade when inhaling will make it clear to the person that this is more likely not the heart, but the musculoskeletal system.

Pain in the interscapular region may be due to gastritis, gastric ulcer or cancer, damaged thoracic vertebrae due to osteoporosis, vertebral fractures, tumors of the spine or esophagus, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, aortic disease, bacterial pneumonia, gastric reflux, reflux esophagitis, pleurisy , pneumothorax, lung tumors, pulmonary embolism, heart and coronary artery disease (coronary heart disease, heart attack, pericarditis), mediastinal tumors (eg, esophagus), aortic dissection, stomach diseases, etc.

Pain in the scapular region quite often occurs as a result of:

1. Diseases of the muscles in the scapular region
2. Muscle-tendon pain in the area of ​​the shoulder joint
3. Pathology of bone tissue of the scapula and spine
4. Neurological (radicular) pain
5. Pathology of the organs of the chest cavity (referred pain): heart, lungs, aorta
6. Pathology of the abdominal organs (referred pain): intestines, gallbladder, ovaries, etc.
7. Shoulder joint

Diseases of the muscles in the scapular region

1. Incorrect posture , especially when sitting in a bent position, can lead to overloading of the muscles of the scapular region. The picture that teachers and parents with children at their desks observe is exactly what leads to the formation of incorrect posture.
2. Chronic stress , anxiety or depression can cause muscle tension in the upper shoulder girdle and scapular area can lead to discomfort in this area, burning or acute pain. In this case, it is recommended to carry out the following exercises: touch the chest with the chin, take a deep breath and stretch the muscles of the back of the chest. Muscle pain can also be accompanied by headache and neck pain.
3. Myofascial pain syndromes . Painful tightness of the muscles and fascia, which are trigger zones.
   Trigger zone – an area of ​​the body, which is the source of pain impulses. Read more about myofascial syndrome. Pressing on this trigger point in the scapular area causes the pain to radiate down the back of the back and arm, as shown in the figure below.
   Myofascial syndromes are believed to occur with prolonged sitting, with gymnastics and training, pulling up on the bar, tilting the head to the side, holding the telephone receiver with the shoulder, with coliosis, or with different leg lengths. At the same time, the mechanism of formation of myofascial syndromes was deciphered at the Ukrainian Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine and Neurology back in 80-90s of the last century.
4. Muscle injury . The muscle can be injured when stretched or overstressed, for example, when lifting a weight, reaching something from a height, when applying pressure on something with a hand, or when a person pulls a heavy object, when doing weightlifting (deadlift, press machine, when squatting) or under similar loads. Symptoms that occur in this case are discomfort, pain and swelling in the interscapular region.
5. Muscle contusion . Muscle contusion, as the cause of a bolt in the interscapular region, provides for the presence of a subcutaneous hematoma after a direct blow or fall. There is usually swelling and local tenderness on palpation of the bruised area.
6. Referred pain from shoulder joint . Reflected pain from the shoulder joint occurs with the pathology of the shoulder joint itself. More often it is inflammation of its soft tissues after certain loads (swimming, throwing) or with uncoordinated movements in the shoulder joint, which is associated with secondary muscle injury.
7. Painful scapula syndrome . This syndrome is characterized by displacement of the scapula, lagging of the scapula from the chest, soreness of the coracoid process and the inner edge of the scapula on palpation, soreness of the muscles of the interscapular region, asymmetric movement of the scapula with limited range of motion. It occurs more often in track and field athletes during the shot put or javelin throw, as well as in baseball, water polo, and tennis players.
8. Migraine . According to some reports, migraine can be triggered by pain in the interscapular region. Migraine is a headache on one side. There is evidence in the literature that migraine can be triggered by pain in the neck and interscapular region.
9. Dermatomyositis and polymyositis . Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disease that can cause pain in the interscapular region. Diagnosis and treatment of dermatomyositis is subject to rheumatological standards.
10. Polymyalgia rheumatica . A rheumatic disease that occurs after 50 years of age. It is characterized by bilateral pain in the shoulder joints and hips. Pain bothers in the morning and intensifies during the day, and can also bother at night. This condition is called giant cell arteritis with temple pain, blurred vision, and fever. Read more about migraines.
11. Whiplash . Occurs during accidents when a blow from behind throws back the head of a person sitting in a car. Such a sharp movement in the absence of a headrest leads to injury to the joints and soft tissues of the neck and thoracic spine. There is a muscular component of pain, including between the shoulder blades. The pain syndrome manifests itself as pain that spreads, including to the interscapular region. In addition, the victim feels stiffness in the neck, limitation of movement, nausea and dizziness, which is associated either with an injury to the vertebral arteries or with a blow to the head.
12. Syndrome of the long belt muscle
13. Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that can also cause interscapular pain. A person with fibromyalgia feels a dull musculoskeletal pain in more than 10 standard areas of the body: the upper parts of the buttocks, along the front surface of the neck, on both sides of the sternum, in the hips, in the elbows, along the inner surfaces of the knee joints, including in the interscapular areas.

The mechanism of fibromyalgia is unclear. Although recently the Ukrainian Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine and Neurology has found ways to alleviate the condition of a patient with fibromyalgia.

Bone pathology

1. Paget’s disease . Bone disease in violation of the regulation of bone metabolism, which can manifest itself after 40 years: weakness, neurological symptoms (increasing deafness, progressive blindness, muscle weakness, paresthesia – numbness), asymmetric pain in the pelvis or in other bones with possible capture of the scapula. It occurs as a result of increased secretion of parathyroid hormone (the hormone of the parathyroid glands, of which there are four in humans). Diagnosis of Paget’s disease is associated with a number of difficulties, but is quite accessible with the appropriate equipment and laboratory diagnostics.
2. Scapular or lung tumor . The primary tumor of the scapula itself or the germination of a tumor in their chest (lungs) causes pain in the back, interscapular region and in the neck. Such conditions need to be treated on time, conducting timely diagnostics for chronic pain syndromes.
3. Facet syndrome more here.

Neurogenic pain

1. Radicular pain . Most often associated with the spine. It can be a hernia, spondloradicular conflict (compression of the root by the process of the intervertebral joint, etc.), It can be caused by spondyloarthritis or deforming spondylarthrosis. An example is the so-called. Th5 syndrome (or “upper chest syndrome”). With it, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe shoulder blades and the neck often hurt at the same time. The back may also hurt in the middle below the shoulder blades.
2. Pathology of the joints of the spine / Burning between the shoulder blades may be due to spondylarthrosis in the acute stage or spondyloarthritis (arthritis – joint inflammation). In this case, it must be taken into account that the spine hurts between the shoulder blades, which has nothing to do with the “pinching” of the nerve under the shoulder blade. The spine often hurts in the region of the shoulder blades. This pain can often be the result of joint overload and inflammation of their soft tissues (arthritis or arthrosis). How to remove pain between the shoulder blades? Often, it is enough to take an x-ray, determine the cause, restore the natural ratio of the vertebrae and costovertebral joints using vertebroneurology methods, and stabilize the spine.
3. Herpes zoster . The old specific name has nothing to do with fungal pathology. It is caused by herpes, which in the thoracic region can cause pain in the interscapular region. Rashes have a characteristic pattern. Pain can bother from several weeks to several months.
4. Allodynia in transverse myelitis . Myelitis is a disease of the spinal cord. Allodynia is an increased pain sensitivity to any stimulus that causes pain. For example – touching the body of clothing.

It should be especially noted that the cause of pain in the interscapular region can be commonplace and easily resolved. For example, if the pain in the chest is on the right and radiates to the right shoulder blade, and this pain intensifies during tests for the mobility of the spine and ribs, then with a high probability one can think of an overload of the costovertebral joint. This is a simple disease and can be quickly solved by specifying the cause of the pain. But, it may be fraught with a formidable disease that requires the doctor’s alertness, deep knowledge and, of course, a methodical approach: anamnesis, examination and hardware diagnostics.

How to get rid of shoulder blade pain? How to remove pain under the shoulder blade?

1. Find out the cause of the pain. To do this, the doctor interviews the patient and conducts a clinical examination.
2. To confirm the clinical diagnosis, you need to undergo an examination. The main thing with pain in the area of ​​​​the scapula, between the shoulder blades and under the scapula, is to take an x-ray. X-ray will show the structure of the spine, the ratio of the vertebrae, determine the accumulation in the soft tissues of the spine and ribs (important for spondyloarthropathies – accumulation diseases, when “salts are deposited”). In some cases, an MRI is indicated.

Park of diagnostic equipment in the clinic “Meddiagnostika” to clarify the diagnosis.