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Trusses for Inguinal Hernia

Trusses are devices worn around the groin somewhat like an athletic supporter, or jockstrap. They are made of soft padding and spring steel or of elastic. Some trusses are like a belt that can be tightened. All devices apply gentle pressure to push hernias back into the abdomen.

Talk with your doctor before wearing a truss for a hernia. These devices are not recommended for treating hernias and sometimes can do more harm than good. There may be certain situations when your doctor thinks a truss would work, but these are rare.

You should use a truss for a hernia only with monitoring by a doctor.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery
Last Revised April 26, 2011

Last Revised: April 26, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery

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