Athletic Pubalgia
Athletic pubalgia (sports hernia) is chronic groin pain arising from overuse injury to the rectus abdominis and adductor tendon attachments at the pubic bone. PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) is prepared from a small sample of your own blood and injected into the affected attachments under ultrasound guidance. It aims to reduce inflammation, which may lead to less pain.
PRP is generally considered when groin pain has persisted for three months or more despite physiotherapy. For some athletes it may help to avoid surgery. Rehabilitation after treatment focuses on core stabilisation and a gradual return to sport-specific movement. Results vary between individuals and suitability is assessed at consultation. Dr John sees patients in Bowral, serving the Southern Highlands, and at Norwest Private Hospital in Bella Vista.
PRP Treatment Process
Dynamic Ultrasound
Identifies specific tendon involvement
PRP Preparation
High platelet yield
Multi-site Injection
Targets all affected attachments
Recovery and Pain Relief
Rest from sports and gym during treatment
Treatment Eligibility
Ideal Candidates:
✔ Chronic groin pain >3 months
✔ Failed physical therapy
✔ Athletes for whom PRP may help to avoid surgery
Exclusions:
✘ Complete tendon avulsions
✘ Inguinal hernias
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "Sports Hernia" (Athletic Pubalgia), and how does PRP aim to treat it?
A “sports hernia,” more accurately termed Athletic Pubalgia, is a chronic groin injury common in athletes. It’s not a true hernia with a bulge, but rather a weakening or tear of the soft tissues in the lower abdominal wall or groin area, often involving the conjoint tendon, rectus abdominis, or adductor muscles. It causes persistent pain in the groin, especially during activities like sprinting, cutting, or sit-ups. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own blood platelets, rich in various growth factors, directly into the injured or degenerated soft tissues implicated in athletic pubalgia. PRP aims to reduce inflammation in the affected area, which may lead to less pain.
Am I a suitable candidate for PRP treatment for Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia) in Australia?
PRP treatment for athletic pubalgia is typically considered for individuals who have chronic groin pain associated with a sports hernia diagnosis, and who have not achieved adequate relief from conventional conservative treatments. These often include extensive rest, activity modification, core strengthening, pelvic stability exercises, and targeted physiotherapy. Your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific tissues involved. PRP is usually explored as a non-surgical option before considering surgery, especially for those whose symptoms are primarily related to tendon or fascial degeneration rather than a frank anatomical defect requiring surgery.
What does a PRP injection for Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia) involve, and what's the typical recovery process like?
The procedure for a PRP injection for athletic pubalgia usually begins with a small amount of blood being drawn from your arm. This blood is then processed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, creating the PRP solution. The concentrated PRP is then precisely injected into the identified injured tissues in the groin area (e.g., rectus abdominis insertion, adductor tendon origin). This injection is almost always performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement in these complex anatomical regions. You might experience some mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure during the injection. After the procedure, it’s common to have some localised soreness, tenderness, or bruising in the groin area for a few days. Your doctor will provide specific post-injection instructions, which generally involve a period of reduced activity, followed by a very gradual and structured rehabilitation program, focusing on core strength, hip flexibility, and progressive return to sport-specific movements. Full recovery and significant improvement can take several weeks to many months.
How many PRP injections are usually needed for Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia), and is it covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
The number of PRP injections needed for sports hernia can vary depending on the individual’s response, the severity, and chronicity of the injury. While some patients may find relief with a single injection, many protocols suggest a course of 1 to 3 injections, often spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal and sustained results, particularly given the chronic nature of this condition. Your treating doctor will advise on the most appropriate number of injections for your specific case. In Australia, as of June 2025, PRP treatments for Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia) are generally not covered by Medicare. This means the cost of the PRP procedure itself is typically an out-of-pocket expense for the patient. Similarly, most private health insurance funds in Australia currently do not provide rebates for PRP therapy for this specific condition. It is advisable to discuss the full costs involved and confirm any potential out-of-pocket expenses directly with your clinic and your private health fund prior to commencing treatment.
Book an appointment
PRP aims to reduce inflammation, leading to pain reduction. Book a consultation in Bowral or Norwest to find out whether it is suitable for you.
Or, phone the clinic.