Pelvis > Sports Hernia > Treatments

   Rest, Ice

Home Recovery

Whether it stems from an acute injury or chronic overuse, a sports hernia often can be treated effectively using rest and ice.

   Rest - Your doctor will likely suggest that you take it easy for several days or longer, depending on the severity of your injury, so it may be wise to clear your schedule of any physical activities.

   Ice – Your doctor may recommend applying an ice pack for about 15 minutes three or four times on the first day. To massage, rotate the ice pack firmly around the area. If there is improvement after the first day, switch to heat. You can use heating pads or packs.

A rehabilitation program including stretching and strengthening of the groin and lower abdomen is recommended. Ask your physician for information regarding these rehabilitation exercises

It has been suggested that sport-specific training, especially in the offseason, will help prevent a sports hernia. Riding a bicycle and running are good for the heart, but they cannot duplicate the activity of a soccer-style kick, or a skate stride. Although extensive work in the weight room combined with aerobic training or cycling is very important, if there are certain motions or actions that are specific to a particular sport, then offseason training should include those activities. In recent years, physical therapists have developed something called ballistic training. For example, one exercise might involve squatting down and then jumping as fast and as high as possible. That kind of ballistic action works on some of the muscles needed to reduce the likelihood of sports hernia.