A sports hernia is a weakening of the muscles and tendons in a thin portion of the lower abdominal wall, resulting in groin pain that tends to intensify with physical activity. It is common in recreational and competitive athletes, both male and female, as well as workers with physically demanding jobs.
Sports hernias are associated with:
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Football
- Baseball
- Long Jump
- Running
What are the signs and symptoms of a sports hernia?
Symptoms include groin pain and discomfort, particularly pain and discomfort that increase with physical activity and resolve with rest. Discomfort may also intensify with other exertions that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing and sneezing. Pain may radiate to the adductor muscles of the inner thigh and testicles as well.
Why does a sports hernia occur?
A sports hernia occurs because there are areas of the abdominal wall that are naturally weak. An imbalance in the strength of inner thigh muscles (adductors) as compared to abdominal wall muscles has also been postulated as to the cause and would explain why some pts have injured both muscle groups.
How do I know if I have a sports hernia?
Unlike other hernias, a sports hernia does not produce a hole in the abdominal wall, so there is no detectable bulge under the skin. Therefore, the best way to find out if you have a sports hernia is through a visit to the Connecticut Hernia Center. Through a comprehensive evaluation of clinical symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging technology, our team of expert surgeons can accurately diagnose your condition and determine the most effective treatment option for your speedy recovery and return to activity.
I have already tried physical therapy and have seen other doctors, but my pain still persists. What other options do I have?
If determined to be effective, surgery may be the right choice for your treatment. Using minimally invasive, laparoscopic procedures, our team of expert surgeons can repair your sports hernia and help you return to your previous activity level with minimal recovery time, often in a matter of weeks.
What makes the PACT Hernia Center different?
Sports hernias are difficult to diagnose. It is not uncommon for us to see patients who have had pain for years and told they don’t have a hernia just a muscle strain. Many have had orthopedic, neurologic and even chronic pain evaluations including injections without a correct diagnosis being made. Unlike other physicians, our expert surgeons see patients with sports hernias regularly including those from major college athletic programs. This experience ensures that you will have the most effective evaluation and treatment so that you can return to the activities you enjoy in a timely manner.