Abstract
Inguinal-related groin pain is common in male athletes participating in sports with explosive change of directions and kicking. The epidemiology, terminology, and definitions for use in clinical practice are discussed in this chapter. The diagnosis can be made using clinical examination to confirm the presence of pain in the inguinal canal region in the absence of an actual inguinal hernia. A thorough examination should be performed in all cases as multiple pathologies are frequently found in the same individual. Imaging only has a role in excluding other pathology. Imaging findings such as bone marrow edema, posterior wall bulging, or adductor tendon changes are common in athletes and not always symptomatic and as such should not be seen as being diagnostic.
When inguinal-related groin pain is diagnosed active rehabilitation is the first line treatment although there is lack of good data to inform on outcome success. The program is based on strengthening the abdominal muscles with progression through isometric, concentric, and eccentric forms. Exercises for the hip adductors and flexors should also be included. Pelvic stabilization and balance exercises should also be performed. When conservative treatment fails, surgery is recommended which relies on strengthening of the inguinal canal.
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Sheen, A.J., Weir, A. (2017). Groin Pain in Athletes. In: Hope, W., Cobb, W., Adrales, G. (eds) Textbook of Hernia. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-43045-4_21
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