The Painful Injury Many Men Mistake for a Groin Strain, According to Doctors
If you play a sport that requires sudden twists, sharp turns, or bursts of speed, a sports hernia is an injury you should have on your radar. About five percent of adult athletes develop one each year, and men are affected more often than women. Chicago Cubs outfielder Kevin Alcántara recently had surgery to repair one, and if our research tells us anything, it’s not an injury you can afford to ignore.
A sports hernia involves a tear or strain in the muscles or tendons of the lower abdomen or groin. In some cases, it can also irritate nearby nerves, causing pain and sensitivity, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The injury is especially common in athletes who make explosive movements or rapid changes in direction, but you don’t need to play professionally to be at risk. Recreational players in sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis can develop one, too.
Despite the name, a sports hernia isn’t a true hernia. A traditional hernia occurs when there's a hole in the abdominal wall and fat or intestines push through. A sports hernia, on the other hand, is a muscle tear that causes ongoing pain, says Todd S. Harris, MD, FACS.
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The most common symptoms of a sports hernia are ongoing pain in the lower abdomen or groin. Some people notice a sudden, sharp pain when the injury occurs, while others experience a dull, burning ache that lingers. The pain can be hard to locate and sometimes radiates down toward the inner thigh or groin area.
Sometimes, this injury is confused with a groin strain, which involves the adductor muscles along the inner thigh. It typically occurs lower than a sports hernia and often results in bruising or tenderness along the upper leg, according to Sebastian Gonzales, DC, CSCS. Groin strains are more common after overstretching or sudden movements that pull the inner thigh muscles. Getting an MRI will help confirm either injury.
As for treatment, surgery is often required when the tear is severe, and the exact procedure depends on which muscles or tendons are involved. Surgical recovery typically takes around three months with proper rehab, and most people return to their activities once healed.
Moral of the story: Don't ignore persistent groin or lower abdominal pain. Sports hernias do not heal on their own, so it's best to contact your healthcare provider to determine a treatment plan.
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