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Groin Injury Treatments

A groin injury--often termed "groin pull" or "groin strain"--occurs when one of the muscles running between the femur (thigh bone) and the pelvis is torn, strained or ruptured. These muscles are called adductor muscles. This type of injury is common among athletes who run, jump, kick and/or change directions quickly. The symptoms of a groin injury include pain, swelling, tightness and bruising in the region between the hip and the inner thigh. You can treat a groin injury in several different ways.

  1. Home Treatment

    • If you suspect that you have experienced a groin injury, begin treatment by getting off your feet. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need slight to major modifications in your physical activities. For instance, you may be able to walk comfortably, but you might have to refrain from running or jumping for a period of days, weeks or even months. Next ice the area to reduce swelling. Sometimes elevating your feet can help reduce swelling as well. Take ibuprofen in order to help alleviate pain and inflammation.

    Medical Intervention

    • Often the best thing to do when you think you have injured your adductor muscles is to visit a doctor. If your injury is serious enough, you may need crutches. Also a doctor may refer you to a specialist in sports medicine. This specialist can advise you on a recovery plan that will allow for appropriate rehabilitation. This is especially important if you are an athlete and wish to return to training and/or competition as soon as possible. A specialist in sports medicine probably will engage you in a program that includes physical therapy and massage. In the most extreme cases of groin injury, a doctor may advise surgery in order to repair ruptured or torn muscle tissue.

    Prevention and Maintenance

    • Whether you are recovering from a groin injury or trying to prevent one, regular preparatory exercises are very important. Slowly stretch the adductor muscles through a variety of exercises. These exercises include forward, backward and lateral movements of the legs. For illustrations of these stretches, take a look at the following link: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/frontthigh/groin_strain/stretching.php?injury=groin_strain.
      Also, before engaging in athletic activity, take time to warm up slowly and thoroughly.

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