Groin Strain

Groin Strain

What is a Groin Strain?

Groin strain, also known as a groin pull or hip adductor strain, is a common injury, especially in athletic or active individuals. It is caused by an over-stretch or tear of one of the adductor muscles or tendons that connect from the thigh bone (femur) to the groin region of the pelvis. The adductor muscles work to pull the thigh inwards. Strains can range in severity from a mildly overstretched muscle to a complete tear.

Do I have a groin strain?

The most common sign that you may have a groin strain is pain in the groin or hip. There are several other conditions that may cause groin pain, and it is important to have a healthcare professional determine the exact cause of intense groin pain. It is especially important to consult when the individual is a child or adolescent as several serious medical conditions also cause groin and hip pain in minors and need to be ruled out.

How can I manage my groin strain?

Mild groin strains can be relieved by temporarily avoiding particular actions that may have led to the strain in the first place. Once the initial flare-up has subsided, gentle, pain-free stretches are important to maintain the muscular mobility while the tissues heal. Eventually, exercises targeting the specific adductor muscles will be important to build-up strength and prevent a repeated strain in the future. A few stretches and exercises are included below.

Can physical therapy help with my groin strain?

Physical therapists are experts at evaluating the severity of a groin strain and then providing care and guidance on an appropriate course of action. Since the pelvis and all the muscles that attach to it act as a complex, multi-faceted unit, physical therapists at ProTailored thoroughly examine the hip, legs, and back to devise a personalized course of action to not only treat your current strain, but to prevent another strain from reoccurring in the future.

Exercises

Cross-Friction Massage

Using 1 or 2 fingers, firmly massage the inside of the thigh in the direction shown. Start lightly and add gradual pressure as tolerated.

Hip Adduction Stretch

Using a bed or couch as shown, position one leg length-wise on the surface. Lean your upper body toward the opposite leg until a strong but pain-free stretch is felt on the inside of the thigh.

Seated hip squeezes

Once the pain and inflammation have gone away, it is important to begin strengthening the adductors to prevent re-injury. To do this, place a folded pillow in between the knees as shown. Using both hips, squeeze the pillow for 2 seconds, and then relax.

If you have any questions and/or would like to start treatment – give ProTailored Physical Therapy a call today at (260) 739-0300!

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