Chronic Groin Pain in Athletes. Terminology Challenges. A Literature Review

Background. Despite several consensus statements proposed by expert groups, including those addressing terminology, numerous authors still use different terms to describe the same pathologies associated with groin pain in athletes. The diversity of definitions and etiologies of groin pain in athletes may lead to inconsistencies in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for athletes with groin pain syndrome.

Objective. To review and analyze current literature in order to clarify the terminology of chronic groin pain in athletes used in clinical practice, and to define the term «sports hernia» in accordance with the most recent consensus on groin pain in athletes.

Materials and methods. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Springer, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to identify English-language articles describing the terminology related to chronic groin pain in athletes. The following search terms were used: «sports hernia», «athletic pubalgia», «groin pain syndrome» and «sportsman’s groin».

Results. Four consensus statements proposed by various expert groups since 2014 were identified. Groin pain in athletes is most commonly classified within the category referred to as «sports hernia». The most frequently used terms include «sports hernia», «athletic pubalgia», «sportsman’s hernia» and «core muscle injury».

Conclusion. Currently, the term «sports hernia» refers to an isolated weakness of the posterior wall of the inguinal canal, without the presence of a true anatomical hernia, leading to chronic groin pain in athletes. Because the pain is not associated with a hernia in the conventional sense, this terminology can be confusing for clinicians. Professional communities should recognize the spectrum of symptoms associated with athletic groin pain and adopt a unified terminology based on anatomical, clinical, and pathophysiological principles.

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