“Sports hernia” is often the terminology used to describe groin pain in athletes, but this may be a misnomer. A true hernia is the protrusion of organ tissue through an area of weak muscle. This is different from the pathology seen in a sports hernia.
The lower abdominal muscles and adductor muscles on the inner thigh both have attachments on the pubic bone of the pelvis. Athletes who participate in high intensity sport involving planting of the feet and twisting (i.e. kicking a soccer ball) engage these muscle groups forcefully. Repetitive use of these muscles can lead to straining of the tendinous insertions on the pubic bone and result in sensations of pain in the lower abdominal and groin region. Because of its specific pathology, healthcare professionals have transitioned to using “athletic pubalgia” to more accurately describe this injury.
In many cases, this condition can be effectively managed with rest and physical therapy to address abdominal and lower extremity weakness and reduce pain. But, if left untreated, the weakened state of the abdominal tissue can lead to a traditional hernia that can further complicate the recovery process.
If you have suffered a sports injury or feel you have symptoms consistent with athletic pubalgia or “sports hernia,” physical therapy can help to reduce your pain and get you on the path to returning to sport confidently. Call Respire Physical Therapy at (703) 671-1871 or click here to schedule an evaluation with one of our trained physical therapists.
Tags: groin pain, return to sport, choosept, arlingtonva, alexandriava, fallschurchva, movement freedom, ptworks, sport injuries, Physical Therapy, pain free living, Respire Physical Therapy, sport hernia, physical therapist
