Does sports hernia cause groin pain?

Sports hernia is a painful injury involving the soft tissues of the lower abdomen or groin, often around the pubic region. It may hurt during sprinting, twisting, kicking, sit-ups, coughing, or resisted hip movement. Unlike a traditional abdominal hernia, it may not create a visible bulge. Pain can improve with rest and return when sport resumes, which is why the activity pattern matters during assessment.

Pause movements that reproduce the pain and avoid testing the area repeatedly during sport. A clinician or physiotherapist can examine the abdominal wall, hip, and inner-thigh muscles to distinguish sports hernia from an adductor strain or hip problem. Early care may include activity modification followed by a structured programme to restore trunk and hip strength. Return to sport should be gradual and symptom-guided.

Book an assessment if groin pain persists, keeps returning with activity, or limits walking, running, or changing direction. Seek urgent care for sudden severe groin or abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, a painful bulge that does not settle, or testicular pain and swelling. These features may point to a problem needing prompt evaluation rather than routine sports rehabilitation.

Ask which structures appear painful, whether imaging is useful, and which activities are safe during recovery. Discuss a graded strengthening plan, criteria for returning to sport, and symptoms that should lead to an earlier review.