A sports hernia is not an actual hernia. It is a core muscle injury that involves small tears and inflammation from repetitive use of the muscle in the lower abdomen, groin, and lower leg. This condition is most common in healthy athletes such as runners, baseball, soccer, hockey, and football players.
Sports hernias are diagnosed through a physical exam and imaging studies like a MRI, ultrasound, and CT. Patients also receive an evaluation from a multidisciplinary team, which could include sports medicine and orthopedic doctors.
We typically treat these injuries with conservative methods first — like physical therapy or injections at the site for pain reduction. To reduce pain and inflammation, you may receive a non-prescription medication such as Advil, Motrin, ibuprofen, or Aleve.
Our surgeons use a laparoscopic approach, which involves small incisions. This method allows for:
The goal is to reinforce muscles of the lower abdomen, groin or lower leg, and inguinal floor. You can discuss the details of the surgery with your surgeon.
In long-term studies, surgery eliminated pain and impairment in 76% of patients. Another 11% of patients experienced significant improvement in their symptoms and were able to return to their regular activities.
Most patients have a few small incisions and may go home the day of surgery. When you go home:
Call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 or request an appointment to learn more about AHN general surgery services.
For follow-up questions related to your hernia care, contact the Comprehensive’s Hernia Center’s Clinical Coordinator, Jennifer Somers at (412) 578-4215 or at Jennifer.Somers@ahn.org.
