5 Tips to Help Prevent Sports Hernias

Sports Hernias Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

June is Hernia Awareness Month, which focuses on providing hernia education on prevention and treatment options. One type of hernia is a sports hernia, which is a painful strain or tear of any soft tissue (muscle, tendon, or ligament) in the lower abdomen or groin area. While this is not a true hernia, and most often does not require surgical intervention, its pain can mimic symptoms of a hernia. It most often occurs during sports that require sudden changes of direction or intense twisting movements, like ice hockey, soccer, wrestling and football, and can take an athlete out of the game for several weeks.

NEBH experts recommend taking the following precautions to help prevent sports hernias:

• Warm up thoroughly. Cold muscles, tendons and ligaments are more susceptible to injury.
• Maintain a balanced fitness routine that includes aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility.
• If you are beginning a new exercise routine or sport, start slow, and increase activity over time. Avoid doing too much too soon.
• Keep a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet.
• Once your muscles are warm, do some gentle stretching, and rest properly after exercising.

If you have any type of persistent pain, you should consult one of our experts.