A hernia is protrusion or dislocation of part of an organ within the body. The most common area for hernias is the abdomen because of weak abdominal walls that present a hole for tissue and organs to protrude through. A sports hernia works the same way but affects the lower abdomen and groin. Sports that require use of the legs and thighs may strain these muscles and result in an injury of the groin muscles. Symptoms of a sports hernia are fairly simple to spot.
Step 1
Check for pain in the lower abdomen, groin and testicles. A sports hernia occurs with overuse or strain of muscles in the lower abdomen and thighs. A subtle pain when not in motion is a sign of a sports hernia, especially if the pain intensifies over time or persists for longer than a week. Pain on one side of the abdomen that radiates down and around the groin is another sign.
Step 2
Observe the groin's reaction to sudden movements. Is there pain when sneezing, coughing or doing exercises such as sit-ups or running? Muscles in the legs and stomach are somewhat connected to the groin and can affect the area when the groin muscles themselves are not being used. Pain in the groin during physical activity that does not require use of the groin muscles in an indication of a sports hernia.
Step 3
Check for swelling, lumps, cuts or bleeding in the groin area. A tear or strain in the muscles is the cause of sports hernias and may lead to bleeding or redness in the area. The tearing or strain may also result in a bulge or lump because of the muscle injury.
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