When the muscles or tendons of the lower abdominal wall are weakened the resulting effect can be a sports hernia. The inguinal canal in the abdomen is effected as it is in the inguinal hernia. Whereas the inguinal hernia is palpable, the sports hernia is not.

As with any medical problem you should learn to identify the signs and symptoms that are associated with a sports hernia. Many who suffer from it complain of chronic groin pain. Keep in mind though that not everyone will experience the same level of pain.

Along with chronic groin pain patients will also suffer from muscle imbalances in the back, legs, and pelvis. This can be uncomfortable and painful for many - but they are also easily treated.

Other symptoms of a sports hernia include:

- Pain in the corner of the pubic bone and that extends to the testicles in a man.
- A dull ache that is followed by sharp pains after certain activities that involve twisting or hip flexion.
- There is almost always pain in the adductors making it difficult for people to squeeze their legs together.
- Pain can also be felt when twisting the body from the general area of the pubic bone and to the inguinal ligament. This pain can wind its way to the patient’s hip and lower back.
- There is often an irritation of the nerves that can wind all the way to the genitals and perineum.
- Many will find it painful to externally rotate their legs when they are bent.
- Intense pain while trying to do everyday activities like getting out of bad. When this happens that patient will usually have to roll out of bed before sitting up.
- Coughing can cause immense pain because it bears down on the hernia.