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Sports Hernia

General Information

A sports hernia, or athletic pubalgia, is a type of groin injury that happens during athletic activity. It results from a significant stretch or tear in the lower oblique muscles of the abdomen that attach to the pubic bone. It sometimes involves damage to the inner thigh muscle, as well.

To diagnose your sports hernia and prevent it from worsening, see a provider at Goshen Orthopedics. Our team of specialists works together to provide the personalized care you need to get back in the game. Call (574) 534-2548 to make an appointment with one of our board certified, fellowship trained providers.

Sports hernia symptoms and causes

The most common sports hernia symptom is severe pain in the groin, especially when you cough, sneeze or press down on the area. You also may notice pain when you get in or out of a car. The discomfort may ease with rest but will return and may worsen when you restart an activity that pulls and engages the lower abdominal and inner thigh muscle.

Sports hernias can happen when you change direction suddenly, pivoting on one leg. The force of your turn stretches the muscles, tendons and ligaments. Soccer and ice hockey players are particularly vulnerable to this sports injury because they run and change directions quickly. Playing any sport where your body may twist, such as wrestling or football, increases your risk of a sports hernia.

How we treat a torn or pulled oblique muscle

Soft tissue muscles and tendons can generally heal on their own with time and rest. Not allowing a sports hernia to heal completely before returning to strenuous activities can make it worse or turn into a chronic condition.

Your provider at Goshen Orthopedics will suggest refraining from activities that pull or put pressure on your groin, as well as wrapping a bandage around the area or wearing compression shorts. In severe cases, you may need orthopedic surgery to repair the torn tissue.

We may also recommend physical therapy to strengthen your muscles. Goshen Rehabilitation is located in the same building as our center, and we will coordinate your appointments to reduce your travel time.

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*Note: Some offices may require a referral to schedule an appointment.