What is Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia)?
A sports hernia or athletic pubalgia is a condition which is caused by weakness of the abdominal wall muscles or tendons. As a result of this weakness, athletic activities which require high speed twisting, turning, jumping, running, and cutting can often lead to a tear where the abdominal muscles and tendons meet the bones of the pelvis. As a result of this tear or weakness, the contents of the abdomen pushes out. This pressure from the contents pushing out can often result in a pinching pain and swelling in the groin and lower abdominal region. The image provided displays the approximate region where the sports hernia can occur. This pain is further increased with sudden movements such as running, jumping, kicking, going up/down stairs, sneezing or coughing. Having a strong core and abdominal muscles can help minimize occurrence of the injury, but having good hip flexor flexibility plays an important role in prevention as well. Diagnosis A sports hernia can be diagnosed by a physicia
