How Do You Know If You Have a Sports Hernia?

Playing sports can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it also comes with its fair share of risks, including the potential for injuries. One common injury that athletes may encounter is a sports hernia, also known as athletic pubalgia or groin disruption injury. Despite its name, a sports hernia is not actually a hernia in the traditional sense but rather a strain or tear in the soft tissue of the lower abdomen or groin area. Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for a sports hernia can help athletes recognize and address this condition promptly.

What is a Sports Hernia?

A sports hernia occurs when the muscles, tendons, or ligaments of the lower abdomen or groin area tear or weaken. Unlike a traditional hernia, which involves a protrusion of abdominal tissue through a weakened abdominal wall, a sports hernia involves a soft tissue injury that may not result in a visible bulge or lump. Instead, the injury typically causes pain and discomfort in the groin area, especially during physical activity.

Symptoms of a Sports Hernia

The symptoms of a sports hernia can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but common signs and symptoms may include:

• Pain or discomfort in the groin area: This pain may be sharp or stabbing and may worsen during activities that involve twisting, turning or bending at the waist.
• Tenderness or swelling: The affected area may be tender to the touch, and swelling or bruising may be present.
• Difficulty with movement: Athletes with a sports hernia may experience difficulty moving the affected leg or may notice a decrease in flexibility or range of motion.
• Pain that worsens over time: Without proper treatment, the symptoms of a sports hernia may worsen over time, making it increasingly difficult to participate in sports or physical activity.

Causes of a Sports Hernia

Sports hernias are often caused by repetitive stress or strain on the muscles and soft tissues of the lower abdomen and groin area. This stress may result from activities that involve sudden or forceful movements, such as sprinting, jumping or kicking. Additionally, sports hernias are more common in sports that require frequent changes of direction or rapid acceleration and deceleration, such as soccer, hockey, football and tennis.

Treatment Options for a Sports Hernia

The treatment for a sports hernia typically involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. Initially, athletes may be advised to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate their symptoms. Physical therapy exercises may be prescribed to strengthen the muscles of the abdomen and pelvis and improve flexibility and range of motion.

In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be recommended to repair torn or weakened soft tissues. This surgery, known as a hernia repair or herniorrhaphy, may be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery, to reduce pain, scarring and recovery time. At Core Surgical, we offer multiple surgery options for sports hernias, personalizing treatment to the specific injury and patient.

While a sports hernia may not always be easy to diagnose, athletes who experience persistent groin pain or discomfort should seek medical attention promptly. By understanding the symptoms, causes and treatment options for a sports hernia, athletes can take proactive steps to address this common sports injury and return to their favorite activities safely and confidently. If you suspect you may have a sports hernia, contact Core Surgical in NYC for expert evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.