Ind Vs Aus: Nitish Kumar Reddy Once Suffered From Sports Hernia, What Is This Medical Condition

Virat Kohli first thanked @GautamGambhir and then gave a beautiful speech before handing over the debut cap to Nitish Kumar Reddy! #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/Hn0O6gP7IK

— Madhav Sharma (@HashTagCricket) November 22, 2024

After making a name on the domestic circuit, Nitish Kumar Reddy was considered a big shot. However, before he could make his international debut, he suffered from a sports hernia. During a conversation with a media outlet in July, Reddy revealed that it is a minor injury and a surgery was not needed. “I have to just take some rest and get some rehab done. I've been going through that, and we actually don't know how much time it takes, but now I'm feeling much better,” he said, adding that it was the physiotherapists’ call. 

With all that, things went as he planned after he made his debut at the BGT. What made it special was that he got the cap from his idol, Virat Kohli. 

What Is Sports Hernia?

A sports hernia, also called athletic pubalgia, is an injury to the soft tissues in the lower abdomen or groin. It is common in athletes. Unlike a traditional hernia, there is usually no visible bulge. This injury often happens due to repetitive strain from sports that involve sudden movements. The main symptom is groin pain that worsens with activity, especially during twisting or quick changes in direction. 

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What is the Difference Between Sports Hernia and Regular Hernia?

A sports hernia and a regular hernia differ significantly in their nature and symptoms. A sports hernia is not a true hernia as it involves a strain or tear in the soft tissues of the lower abdomen or groin area, without any visible bulge.

Whereas, a regular hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, creating a noticeable bulge. Regular hernias are often associated with heavy lifting, straining, or chronic coughing.

Symptoms Of Sports Hernia

For athletes, recognising the symptoms early is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Below are a few key symptoms: 

• Persistent pain in the groin area and is often described as dull or burning. 

• Discomfort that worsens with physical activities such as sprinting, twisting, or sudden changes in direction. 

• Pain that may radiate to the inner thigh, scrotum, or lower abdomen.

• Increased pain when sneezing, coughing, or laughing.

• Some individuals may experience a tearing sensation at the time of injury.

• Tenderness in the groin area upon palpation.

What Is The Treatment Of Sports Hernia?

The treatment of sports hernia involves a combination of non-surgical and surgical approaches. It depends on the severity of the injury and the patient's circumstances. Below given are a few treatment measures for athletes going through sports hernia. 

• Rest: Athletes are advised to take a break from sports and strenuous activities for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the injured tissues to heal.

• After an initial rest period, a tailored physical therapy program focuses on strengthening the abdominal and hip muscles while improving flexibility.

• Applying ice to the affected area and using compression bandages can help manage pain and swelling.

• In some cases, steroid injections or nerve blocks may be used to provide additional pain relief.

Sometimes, if non-surgical treatments do not work after several months, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedure involves repairing torn tissues in the groin area using internal sutures. Following surgery, a rehabilitation plan is implemented for the athletes to help restore strength and function, with most athletes returning to their sport within 6 to 12 weeks.