Hernia & Groin Injuries

Groin injuries are common and can be excruciating. Many groin injuries such as a hernia result from overuse and the everyday wear and tear on our bodies.

Types

• There are three types of groin injuries: groin strain, direct trauma, and hernia. A groin strain or pulled groin is the most common groin injury and occurs when the groin muscles are stretched beyond their normal capacity. Direct trauma results from a direct blow to the groin area. A hernia is a groin injury where part of an internal organ, usually intestine or abdominal cavity, bulges out of the area where it is normally contained.

Classification

• Groin injuries are classified into two categories: acute injuries and overuse injuries. An acute injury can occur from a stabbing, a fall, a direct blow, or a leg turned or twisted abnormally. An overuse injury occurs when too much stress is placed on the groin area from work or recreational activities.

Treatment

• Treating a pulled groin and direct trauma injuries involve the R.I.C.E. course of therapy: rest, ice, compression, elevation. Also, anti-inflammatory medication can reduce pain and decrease inflammation in the affected area. Most hernias, however, require surgery to repair.

Prevention

• Groin injuries can be prevented by warming up prior to activity, stretching to maximize flexibility, and strengthening the adductor muscle group through weight training. To prevent hernias, athletes should avoid holding their breath when straining to lift weight in the weight room.

Considerations

• If you find that your groin pain is not caused by an injury to the groin, the pain may be coming from other parts of the body. A pulled muscle, tendon, or ligament in the leg may cause pain in the groin.