Hi folks.

I sustained a hernia in August 2024 at work.

Imaging finally came back from worker’s comp-approved radiology and dxed a left infuinal hernia of 12.7cm x 5.1cm!

This sounds…huge…and I’m terrified.

The pain has been limiting to debilitating for awhile now. We’re talking puking and passing out levels of pain sometimes. I’ve just had to work through it all in order to keep my bills paid. The process to dx and treat has been slow and frustrating. Started with wait-and-see and physical exam only, kept having to go back to the doctor as it got worse.

I also think it’s bilateral umbilical. Only had a CT scan about a month ago and I’m wondering if ultrasound or other imaging can diagnose possible smaller, concurrent hernias that I think I feel. I’d like to have everything dxed and repaired at once. My understanding is that results in the best outcomes, typically.

I want to go to a quality professional who specializes in these surgeries, but worker’s comp says that they will 1.) have to assign me a new adjuster and reinvestigate are my case now that surgery is ordered and 2.) probably just go to a general surgeon.

I’m completely overwhelmed by grief and fear. I work(ed) in the fitness industry and this has devastated me. I haven’t had surgery since my wisdom teeth were removed 15 years ago and I want to make sure I have the best opportunity at a solid recovery.

I’ve had to return to food service, regularly wear a binder, and will be making, like, less than $300 a week IF disability pays out while I recover from surgery.

Advice, experiences, and reassurance are appreciated. I have contacted a law firm that specializes in hernia-at-work injuries.