A Sports Hernias by Any Other Trauma is Still a Sports Hernia
Unlike most confusing medical terms for injuries, a sports hernia appears fairly straightforward. The name seems to say it all: a hernia that can happen while playing sports. However, this is not always the case. Sports hernias can be caused by athletic pursuits, and while the majority are, but they can also result from normal, every day activities.
A sports hernia can occur whenever there is a sharp, twisting movement in the lower abdomen area. The most common situations resulting in injury are in sports, usually hockey, dance, soccer, or similar activities. Unfortunately, sports hernias can also happen over the course of day-to-day routines or thanks to unforeseen events.
Some everyday activities that are considered routine may actually be creating a higher risk of sports hernia injury. Heavy lifting, for example, can wear down the abdominal muscles and make one more vulnerable to a hernia-causing tear. When it is combined with bad habits over time like bad form or an imbalanced core, a seemingly innocuous task can cause a debilitating injury. Other interests may also be putting you at risk for an injury, like that 80’s dance party at your high school reunion. Lots of sharp, twisting movements could combine with a weak core set of muscles to spell out injury.
Unfortunately, there are some potential sports hernia risks that are hard to prevent. Catastrophes such as car wrecks or other accidents can also lead to injury even when all the normal protections are taken. When a vehicle crashes, it immediately places an incredible amount of force on those inside in all directions. If the conditions are right, the passenger could develop a sports hernia as a result of the twisting stress of movement.
Even with all of these risks in our everyday routines, it’s important to remember that there are things that you can do to lessen your likelihood of suffering a sports hernia injury. Keeping a strong and balanced core is essential, as it strengthens your abdominal muscles and makes them less susceptible to injury. Stretches after exercise, especially those that work with the groin area, like the butterfly stretch, will help to keep muscles flexible. Finally, listening to your body is crucial in avoiding any type of injury, not just a sports hernia. If you have pain that does not improve with some rest then ask your doctor for an evaluation.
Sports hernias may sound fairly clear-cut, but in reality there are several other factors that could put you at risk beyond just sports. It’s important to recognize these hidden risks and do what you can to reduce the likelihood of sustaining one of these injuries that could put you on the sidelines for months.