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 health professional 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.