Gilmore's Groin

What is Gilmore's groin?

Gilmore's groin involves a tear of the adductor muscles, usually high up near the attachment to the pubic bone. It is sometimes called the Sportsman's Hernia, there is not actually a hernia present. It is common in sports were a great deal of strain is placed on the groin and pelvic area such as soccer and results in groin pain.

Although groin pain can vary, the features of a Gilmore's groin include a torn external oblique aponeurosis (ribbon like structure), tendon torn from the pubic bone.

Symptoms include:

• Groin pain thats increased by running, sprinting, twisting and turning.
• After training the athlete may be stiff or sore.
• The day after training / playing the athlete may have groin pain when turning or even getting out of a car.
• Coughing and sneezing may also cause groin pain.
• It is claimed that in 30% of athletes there is a history of sudden injury but the majority indicate it to be a gradual overuse injury.

What can the athlete do?

• Although it is often possible to continue training with a Gilmore's groin the conditions is likely to get gradually worse.
• Conservative treatment involves strengthening the muscles of the pelvic region.
• See a sports injury professional and / or surgeon who can make an accurate diagnosis.

What can a doctor or surgeon do?

• For athletes that have not responded to rehabilitation surgery is indicated, which is usually successful.
• Following surgery a 4 to 6 week rehabilitation period is usually required before returning to play.
• The rehabilitation programme will be aimed at gradually improving the strength and flexibility of the pelvic muscles and will avoid sudden twisting and turning movements which may aggravate the injury.