Question:
Is it normal to have muscle contractions behind incision?

Hi, I'm 13 days out and have, what I call, muscle contractions behind my incision. There is NO pain with them. Just tightening. Has anyone else experienced this? Thanks!    — Beth A. (posted on December 17, 2003)

December 16, 2003
I thought I was the only one when this happened to me. I even brought it up to my surgeon, but he said he had no idea as to why/what it was. It may just have been the area "reacting" to the stress of the surgery. Mine only lasted 3-4 weeks. I am almost 8 months out now and down 110 pounds, so every little pain was worth it.
   — chippywah

December 17, 2003
I didnt have that happen when I had WLS(Open) a year ago but I had my gallbladder out(Lap) 2 weeks ago and I still have muscle spasms behind 2 of my incisions. At my check up last week, my surgeon said it was normal. If you are really worried, call your doc and ask. Take care and Happy Holidays. ~Sidney~ Open RNY 10-23-02 down 130+ and under goal
   — Siddy I.

December 17, 2003
Beth ~ I am SO glad you brought this up! I am recovering from hernia repair surgery (15 days ago) and am having this very same thing! I did not have it with my open RNY in January but certainly am now. Feels funky ~ I can feel the contractions and light spasms under the incision and to the sides. Glad to know it seems to be common. Thanks!!
   — chelle3081

December 17, 2003
Hi! I had this happen for several weeks. I had an open DS and the really odd thing was every morning when I woke up it felt like half of my stomach muscles were contracting and the other half were not! It was the freakest feeling and I could not get anyone who had not had surgery to understand!! The good thing is that at about 6 wks out it slowed down and I am positive that at 8 weeks out it was gone! Best wishes that you recover quickly!!
   — Kim M.

December 18, 2003
Yes! I'm about 6 weeks out now from Tt and hernia repair and I have lots of muscle contractions, fluctuations.. and all many of stuff! I even had a bout with some really rough muscle spasms that sent me to the ER.. do NOT under any circumstances spend time holding your muscles in.. I was doing it, NOT consciously, mind you.. but I was.. and it really did a number on me. Once we got it diagnosed and I started to be conscious of breathing deeply and not holding in the stomach.. things really improved. I still have twinges now and then... good luck!
   — Lisa C.