Usually, no. In most cases, a hernia can be diagnosed with a good history and a careful physical exam. That is especially true for a typical inguinal hernia in the groin, or an umbilical hernia. Many patients assume they will need an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI before...
Very likely. What you describe—a sudden bulge in the groin with discomfort after straining that then slips back in and the pain eases—is classic for a reducible inguinal hernia. A hernia is a weakness in the abdominal wall that lets tissue push out when pressure rises...
