Didn't intend to post again, but I felt as though I owed it to anyone who stumbles on the blog with the same problems. I can see from my web stats a lot of people have googled the injury symtoms and found their way here.
I went to Cardiff, to see Mr Woodward, a surgeon at the Bupa Hospital and after reading my case history and asking a few questions, he said it sounded like a typical case.
He did a quick exam, pressing each side of my groin, as I twisted to each side and coughed. Straight away he could very clearly feel "a gap" on the right side. My conjoint Tendon should be attached to the inguinal ligament. Mine isn't anymore, it's torn off. Only surgery can fix it. He recommends an open surgery technique, not keyhole. a 6cm slice is made, the tendon reattached, and some semi-disolveable mesh is applied to strengthen the area. The surgery takes about half an hour and he is happy to perform it under a general or a local (nerve block) anaesthetic. He warned that there is always a danger of infection with mesh and sometimes it has to be removed (though it hasn't happened to him yet). He also said that for 1 in 10 the surgery doesn't work, so a 90% success rate if you look at it optimistically. Sometimes he does an adductor tendon release if required, but doesn't think I need it. The cost of the surgery I am waiting for the quote, but I believe it is just over £2000.
So, it was indeed Gilmore's Groin (also referred to as other names as well, groin disruption, sportsmans hernia etc). See the link for a description, which fits like a glove for my symptoms.
http://www.physioroom.com/experts/expertupdate/interview_jerry_gilmore.php
I'm going to get it done on 4th November I think, and worry about the cost when MasterCard send me the bill. Recovery time is 4-6 weeks if the operation is a success. I hope to rehab and make a return to running, but there are a lot of possible outcomes (I'm the 1 in 10 who is doesn't work for, or there are other things wrong as well that I find later). For now, I'll live in hope. Thank you for all the comments, I wish you all the best too. Again, thanks to Alex who gave me the surgeon's name. Six months Injured and the surgeon pinpointed the injury in 30 seconds.
Take care
Rich
Races across the major deserts of the World, and the training events along the way - Richard Weremiuk
Hi rich, glad it wasnt a wasted journey for you, and that you have finally got a diagnosis! That in itself is half the battle, now all you need is a good surgeon which woodward is. All the best in surgery there is nothing to worry about (even though you will right up to it). Just focus on the end result of running again without pain it will be worth it in the end. all the best alex. ps was your appointment in cardiff on tuesday at 6 i think i might of walked past you in the corridor
ReplyDeleteGood luck mate.
ReplyDeleteHi Rich,
ReplyDeleteI really hope all works out for you.
I really have enjoyed your blog (it has been really inspiring)and have no doubt you will be back in fine form.
Good luck and take care.
All the best Rich- I am sure you will be in the 90% and be back to running (and writing) when you have recovered!
ReplyDelete