Sports hernias: Common symptoms, causes, treatment and more
If you're dealing with ongoing groin pain or discomfort during physical activity, you may be wondering what's causing it. One possible explanation may be a sports hernia, and understanding the typical signs, risk factors, and treatment options can help you take the next step toward finding relief.
In this article, we'll explain what a sports hernia is, common symptoms to look for, and the treatment options that may be available.
So, what exactly is a sports hernia?
A sports hernia is an injury, usually a strain or tear of the muscles, tendons, or other soft tissues in your lower abdomen or groin that can cause chronic pain.1 The name “sports hernia” can be misleading, as it is not an actual hernia. In the medical community, the condition is known as athletic pubalgia.2
What are some common symptoms of a sports hernia?1
Sports hernia symptoms vary from person to person, but often include:
Unlike more common inguinal hernias that can cause a visible bulge in the groin, sports hernias typically do not produce any outward signs.2 If you're experiencing symptoms that may be related to a sports hernia, talk with your doctor for an evaluation and to rule out other possible causes of groin pain.
What are some common causes of a sports hernia?1
Sports hernias are often caused by activities that place repeated strain on the muscles and soft tissues in your lower abdomen and pubic area. Additional common causes include:
How is a sports hernia diagnosed?3
To determine if you have a sports hernia, your healthcare provider will likely speak with you about your symptoms and how the injury occurred, and perform a physical exam that could include doing a sit-up or flexing your torso against resistance. If you have a sports hernia, these tests can be painful. Your doctor may also use imaging techniques such as:
What are some treatment options for a sports hernia?
The treatment your doctor recommends for a sports hernia will depend on factors such as the severity of your symptoms, your overall health, and the location of the injury, among other factors.
Non-surgical treatment1
Surgical treatment
If rest and conservative treatment do not work, your doctor may discuss surgical procedure(s) with or without the use of mesh to repair the torn tissues.4 These procedures could include:1
Learn more about surgical options
Frequently asked questions
Athletes who play sports that involve repetitive twisting, cutting, kicking, or rapid changes in direction may be at greater risk for a sports hernia.3 These injuries are commonly associated with sports such as:3
Sports hernias can be difficult to prevent, especially in sports that place repeated stress on the pelvis and hips. A prevention program may include exercises to strengthen your core and hip muscles, along with flexibility exercises to help minimize strain on the lower abdominal area.1
Sports hernias often require medical intervention to fully heal. While symptoms may improve with rest and non-surgical treatment, some injuries may require surgery.1 Speak to your doctor about the treatment options available to you based on your individual case.
Recovery time for a sports hernia varies depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment recommended by your doctor. Some people improve after six to eight weeks of physical therapy, while recovery after surgery may take six to 12 weeks.1
Seeking care for your sports hernia
A sports hernia can affect anyone, from professional athletes and celebrities, to people who simply enjoy staying active. While symptoms can be disruptive, understanding the cause of your pain is an important first step toward finding the right treatment plan.
If you're experiencing persistent groin pain or symptoms that interfere with your daily activities, it is important to see a healthcare professional for an evaluation.
The guidance provided in this article follows general rules that should be discussed with your doctor. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.
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