The 'sports hernia': a common cause of groin pain

Abstract

Athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive twisting and turning at speed, such as soccer or ice hockey, may be at risk of developing a 'sports hernia'-disruption of the inguinal canal without a clinically detectable hernia. Insidious onset of unilateral groin pain is the most common symptom. Concurrent pathologies, such as osteitis pubis and adductor tenoperiostitis, may complicate diagnosis. Plain radiographs and a bone scan can aid differential diagnosis, but herniography is not recommended. Surgery is the preferred treatment. Structured rehabilitation should enable athletes to return to sports activity 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.