Frequently Asked Questions

Here you'll find answers to some of the most common questions about the Flat Pad Inguinal Hernia Support, including suitability, sizing, fitting, ordering and delivery.

If you can't find the answer you need, please email us at sales@thesupportcompany-uk.com.

About the Flat Pad Support

The Flat Pad Support is a specialist support garment designed for men with a inguinal (groin) hernia.

Unlike many traditional hernia belts and trusses that use pronounced rounded or shaped pads, our support uses flat pads positioned over the groin area.

The aim is to provide secure, comfortable support while the hernia is reduced.

What makes the Flat Pad Support different from a traditional hernia truss?

The main difference is the pad design.

Many traditional trusses use rounded or shaped pads that apply concentrated pressure over the affected area. Some also incorporate more rigid components.

The Flat Pad Support takes a different approach, using broad, flat pads designed to sit securely over the groin area.

The garment itself is elasticated and designed to be comfortable and discreet enough for everyday wear.

Does wearing a hernia support weaken your muscles?

A hernia support is intended to provide external support while the hernia is reduced. It should not be regarded as a way of strengthening the abdominal muscles or repairing the underlying hernia.

Many customers choose to wear a support because they find it helps them feel more comfortable and supported during everyday activities.

Your individual activity level should be based on your circumstances and any advice you've received from your healthcare professional.

Will the Flat Pad Support cure or repair my hernia?

We don't claim that the Flat Pad Support cures or repairs an inguinal hernia. It is a support garment, designed to provide external support for a reducible inguinal hernia.

If you have questions about treatment or whether surgery is appropriate for you, those decisions should be discussed with your doctor or surgeon.

I have a left-sided inguinal hernia. Which support do I order?

You don't need to choose a left or right-sided version. Every Flat Pad Support has pads on both sides, so the same garment can be used for a left-sided inguinal hernia.

What if my hernia is on the right?

It's the same product. Because there are pads on both sides, the Flat Pad Support can be used for either a left or right-sided inguinal hernia.

Can I use it if I have inguinal hernias on both sides?

Yes. The Flat Pad Support has pads on both sides and can therefore provide support for bilateral (double) inguinal hernias, provided the hernias are suitable for this type of support.

Sizing & Fit

How do I know which size to order?

Flat Pad Supports are sized according to your hip measurement, not your waist size or normal trouser size. Measure around the fullest part of your bottom, rather than around your hip bones. Keep the measuring tape level and comfortably against your body without pulling it too tightly. You can then compare your measurement with the size options shown on the product page.

I'm between two sizes. Which should I choose?

This is difficult as even if you measure yourself perfectly, for some people the garment may be a little too small, and for others a little too big. First of all, make sure that when you measure yourself you don't make the tape too tight. Try ordering the larger size, since this will usually fit best.

Is the Flat Pad Support adjustable?

The main body of the support is made from strong elasticated material and is designed to provide the appropriate fit when the correct size is selected. This means there isn't the same need for extensive adjustment found on some traditional trusses. Choosing the correct size is therefore particularly important.

What happens if I order the wrong size?

Don't worry, if the support doesn't provide the correct fit, please contact us within 14 days to discuss the fit with you and, where appropriate, help you choose a more suitable size and arrange a size exchange.

We ask that you take reasonable care of the garment while assessing the fit and don't wash or alter it if you think it needs to be exchanged.

How tight should my Flat Pad Support feel?

The support should feel secure and supportive without causing excessive pressure, pain or significant discomfort. It needs to be sufficiently close-fitting to remain correctly positioned, but tighter is not necessarily better. If your support feels excessively tight, loose or doesn't stay correctly positioned, please contact us. A different size may be more appropriate.

How do I put the Flat Pad Support on?

Correct positioning is important. The support should be put on with the hernia reduced and the flat pad positioned correctly over the affected area. Please follow the fitting instructions supplied with your support and the guidance provided on our website.

If you're having difficulty getting the correct fit or positioning, contact us and we'll be happy to help.

Everyday Use

Can I wear the Flat Pad Support every day?

The support is designed for everyday use, and many customers choose to wear theirs during normal daily activities. How frequently and for how long you wear it will depend on your individual circumstances and comfort.

Can I exercise while wearing it?

Customers use Flat Pad Supports during a variety of everyday activities. However, having a support in place doesn't automatically mean that every exercise or lifting activity is appropriate for someone with an inguinal hernia. If you're unsure what activities are suitable for you, particularly strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, discuss this with your healthcare professional.

Can I wear it underneath my clothes?

Yes. The Flat Pad Support is designed to be worn discreetly underneath normal clothing. The flat-pad construction also avoids the pronounced shape associated with some traditional rounded-pad trusses.

Can I sleep in my hernia support?

We recommend discussing overnight use with your healthcare professional if you believe you need support while sleeping. Many people primarily use a hernia support while they are upright and active during the day.

Ordering & Delivery

Do you have a shop where I can try one on?

No. The Support Company is an online business and Flat Pad Supports are ordered directly through our website. We provide detailed measuring instructions to help you select the appropriate size. If you're unsure before ordering, email us and we'll be happy to help.

Do you ship to the USA?

Yes, we are based in the United Kingdom and ship Flat Pad Supports to customers in the USA and worldwide. Available shipping options and costs will be shown during checkout.

How long will my order take to arrive?

We aim to dispatch orders within 3 business days of receiving payment.

Estimated delivery times after dispatch can be found on our Shipping & Delivery page.

International deliveries can occasionally be delayed by customs or local delivery services.

You'll receive tracking information when your order is dispatched.

How can I track my order?

We'll send you a dispatch confirmation email containing your tracking information once your order has been shipped. If you can't see the email, please check your spam or junk folder. If your tracking hasn't updated for an extended period, contact us and we'll be happy to investigate.

Returns & Exchanges

You can read our Refunds & Exchanges Policy for further details.

Payment

Is it safe to pay online?

Yes, our online store is hosted by Shopify and payments are processed through the secure payment methods available at checkout.

Other Questions

We're a specialist company and are happy to help with questions about sizing, fitting, ordering or the Flat Pad Support itself.

Email: sales@thesupportcompany-uk.com

For questions about your diagnosis, symptoms or treatment options, please speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.