The main role of a truss in hernia management is temporary symptom relief. A truss provides external support by applying gentle pressure over the hernia site, which helps in reducing discomfort and prevents protrusion during daily activities. However, it does not repair the hernia defect or offer a definitive cure. Trusses are typically used in patients who are unfit for surgery or awaiting surgical intervention. They do not prevent recurrence or reduce the risk of strangulation, which can only be addressed surgically through hernia repair techniques. Therefore, the truss serves primarily as a non-surgical, symptomatic management tool.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th Edition.