Groin strain
What is a groin strain?
A groin strain most commonly involves a partial tear of the muscles of the inner thigh – known as the adductor muscles. These muscles help to move the legs inward and include pectineus, adductor brevis, adductor longus, adductor magnus and gracilis. These adductor muscles run from the pelvis to the inner thigh. Mild strains involve overstretching of the muscle, whereas more severe strains can involve extensive tearing of the muscle fibres.
Symptoms of groin strain
Symptoms are a sudden sharp pull in the front of the groin when the muscle is forcibly stretched that causes you to slow down or stop. Pain can range from mild discomfort and stiffness in the groin area to severe pain on walking. Bruising may develop and limping may also be a symptom.
Causes
Running, jumping, forced push off (side to side movement) and sudden changes of direction when running are the activities that most commonly lead to groin strain.
Treatment of groin strain
Rest, ice application and taping are the initial treatment. Anti-inflammatory medication may help. Once the acute pain is gone, stretching and strengthening exercises are usually started with a physiotherapist.
Last Reviewed: 17 July 2009
