People free of hemorrhoids typically have good pelvic muscle and tissue tone, circulation, normal-sized anal veins, adequate muscular strength and squeeze capacity. A breakdown in any of these areas can lead to hemorrhoids.
As with any muscle system, the anorectal group responds very well to physical training such as Kegel maneuvers. The difficulty many people have with exercising their pelvic floor, however, is that the muscles can be hard to locate. Maintaining consistent squeezing is also a challenge for people who aren't used to consciously working their pelvic floor. Women have their Kegelcizers, FemTone weights, and other vaginal devices, which really help isolate and work the specific muscles that aid in supporting the pelvic and abdominal cavity. And everyone by now knows the benefits of these exercises: reduced hemorrhoids, reduced urinary leakage, less chance of uterine and rectal prolapse, and better sexual response.
But what about the unique physiology of men? Pelvic floor weakness in males often presents not only as hemorrhoids, but as erectile dysfunction and prostate problems also. But like women, men often find it difficult to isolate the correct muscles for a pelvic floor workout. How can men achieve stronger pelvic floor muscles and all the benefits that come with these exercisers?
As muscle control improves, so does the area's circulatory capacity. Anal veins are better able to return blood away from the region instead of pooling and causing discomfort. Peristaltic hemorrhoid massage relieves, reduces and prevents worsening of early-stage hemorrhoids, including hemorrhoids that bulge out after a bowel movement but can be pushed back into the anus.
One of the problems with hemorrhoids is that there is quite a bit of pain and burning associated with them. If you don't correctly deal with the problem, it can get worse. What can you do about exercise while having a hemorrhoid problem?
What you want to completely avoid is heavy lifting while you have a hemorrhoid problem. If you do this, there will be pressure put on it which will stress your problem and potentially cause it to stress and strain. Some lifting that doesn't involve your legs and core like arm exercises can be fine as long as you don't put extra stress on your hemorrhoid.
Don't go for the opposite reaction and not do any exercise at all. This is a horrible plan. Those who sit all day during the day will have as many swelling issues as those who exercise too much. When you sit too long, the blood will pool and cause the hemorrhoid to swell. Doing some very mild activity like walking around every hour or so will keep your blood flowing so that you won't have as many problems.
When your hemorrhoids are acting up, don't lift your usual amount of weight. Instead, use a lighter weight and concentrate on proper form.
If you have access to a swimming pool, get in there and enjoy the water! Even if you don't swim, get a flotation device that will let you float and kick. You'll get a full-body workout with no hemorrhoid strain.
