A Physical Exam Accurately Diagnoses a Sports Hernia

After the history, physical examination is the most important part of the evaluation. Because the sports hernia is virtually invisible to diagnostic imaging technologies, such as MRI or CT scans, a review of your medical history and a physical examination are used to identify the injury. The physical examination is key as it identifies the sports hernia mainly by excluding other potential injuries.

By ruling out other causes for your groin or abdominal pain, the likelihood of a sports hernia increases. Major areas of inspection include the abdominal region, the groin, the adductor tendons, the hip, and the spermatic cords and testicles in men. Expect the exam to last approximately 40 minutes.

A patient with a sports hernia will have an enlarged external inguinal ring secondary to a tear of the external oblique fascia. The external ring can be palpated by inverting the scrotum with the finger. Normally only the tip of the finger can be passed through the external inguinal ring. In cases of a sports hernia a finger easily passes through the external inguinal ring. Palpation of the external inguinal ring will often reproduce the patient’s pain .Often the floor of the inguinal canal can be palpated. And the thickness and strength can be compared to the contralateral side. A thin and weak inguinal floor is also characteristic with a sports hernia.

Another important part of the examination is palpation of the external oblique as it runs parallel to the inguinal ligament. Often a defect can be palpated. A defect in the external oblique fascia is consistent with a sports hernia.

Learn more about Dr. Brown's approach to the treatment of sports hernias or contact Dr. Brown for additional information.

Dr. William H. Brown, III
Sports Hernia Specialist

Dr. William Brown, MD

Dr. Brown has been performing sports hernia surgeries and providing specialized rehabilitation programs since 1999.

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His clients include the San Jose Sharks, San Jose Sabercats and the San Jose Earthquakes sports teams.

Our locations:

556 Mowry Ave, Suite 100
Fremont, CA 94536
Phone: (510) 793 2404
Fax: (510) 793 1320

1011 Cass Street, Suite 115
Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: 831-915-3065
Phone: 415-756-5161
Fax: 510-793-1320

151 Forest Avenue
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Phone: 650-565-8683
Fax: 650-565-8684