Is it a sore muscle or hernia? Free screenings available at General Surgery and Bariatrics Darby
June 22, 2026Categories: Blog Posts
Tags: Hernia surgery
More than 5 million Americans are currently living with a hernia—a weakness or hole in the abdominal wall muscles, through which fat or intestines can protrude.
However, according to the National Center for Health Statistics, only about 750,000 will seek treatment this year.
Many people aren’t aware they have a hernia. For body builders, those with a chronic cough and others who experience daily strain on their abdomen, they might mistake the pain of a hernia for general muscle soreness. But if left untreated, the impact could be fatal.
To ensure community members with a possible hernia receive prompt evaluation, the providers at General Surgery and Bariatrics Darby are hosting two free hernia screenings during National Hernia Awareness Month. Patients can stop by on Wednesday, June 24, to meet with surgeon Kanika Trehan, MD, or Friday, June 26, to see surgeon Austin Goetz, MD, both from 9 a.m. to noon.
“We will meet with the patient and perform a physical exam. If there is a concern for a hernia, we will direct them toward the next necessary steps, whether that be getting an imaging test or planning for surgery. No special preparation is needed,” says Dr. Trehan. “These events are meant to help encourage patients to seek medical attention so that we can detect hernias earlier, which can prevent complications and reduce anxiety. Anyone who is experiencing abdominal soreness or bulging should consider attending.”
Hernia risk factors
It’s possible for anyone to develop a hernia. But there are certain conditions and habits that increase an individual’s likelihood, including:
- Lifting heavy at the gym
- Chronic cough
- Straining due to constipation
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Steroid medications
- Prior abdominal surgeries
Know the symptoms: Hernia vs. soreness
Abdominal wall hernias are the most common type, usually occurring in the groin, umbilicus (bellybutton) or surgical scars that the patient may already have. While these can mimic the feeling of general abdominal soreness, especially when the hernia is small, there are certain symptoms that are unique to hernias:
- A popping sensation in the groin or abdomen while lifting a heavy object
- A noticeable bulge that goes away when pushed into the body or the patient is lying flat on their back
- Pressure, pain or a dull ache in the area that gets worse with heavy lifting, coughing or standing for long periods of time, and interferes with daily living
“Pain from a muscle strain will gradually get better with rest, but pain from a hernia will typically remain persistent or worsen over time,” says Dr. Trehan.
When a hernia becomes life-threatening
Not all hernias are emergencies, but they do require immediate medical intervention if the patient experiences any of the following:
- The bulge is tender, hard and does not go back inside when pushed or the patient is lying down
- Redness over the area
- Nausea and vomiting
“Many hernias start out as a small bulge with minimal symptoms, but over time, they enlarge and become more symptomatic. They do not go away on their own. Our main concern is when the hernia becomes increasingly painful and difficult to push back in, as this is a sign of strangulation—when the blood supply of the stuck tissue is cut off,” says Dr. Goetz. “Strangulation is a surgical emergency and can sometimes require part of the intestines to be removed.”
Don’t hesitate to get checked out
For anyone who believes they may have a hernia, Dr. Trehan urges them to schedule a screening and not brush it off as something minor.
“A hernia is not the same thing as a simple muscle strain and may require surgery to prevent serious complications in the future,” she says. “If you notice a persistent bulge or if your abdominal soreness doesn’t resolve with rest, then it is worth getting evaluated. Early evaluation allows for simpler interventions and can prevent emergencies.”