Groin Strain is a condition that occurs when the muscles and tendons in the groin region(also known as the hip adductor muscles) stretch and/or tear beyond its normal capacity.  The groin muscles are a group of muscles that typically attach from the inside(medial side) of the hip and pelvis and insert into the inside(medial side) of the knee.  These muscles have many functions but one of their main functions is to help close the legs together(bring the legs together).  This injury occurs more commonly in active individuals and athletes – running, swimming, biking, soccer, hockey/ice skating, and weightlifting, to name a few.  But this injury can happen to anyone that moves past the muscle’s capacity.

Symptoms of a groin strain are ache pain in the groin, sharp pain in the groin, and shooting pain from the groin down the inside leg.  This injury will cause limitations on daily activity such as walking, running, sitting to standing, walking up and down stairs, and even getting in and out of a vehicle.  One may notice a decrease in range of motion in the hip/leg, and may even notice weakness in the affected leg.  Some may also notice or feel like there is pain in their genitals because the attachment sites of the muscles are close in this region which is what we consider referral pain.  If left untreated this injury can become worse leading to a more severe injury such as a tear to the muscle or tendon.

The best course of action for this issue is to seek professional help that will properly evaluate and diagnose the injury.  The professional will be able to build a specific treatment plan for the injury and the individual.  This treatment plan should incorporate – pelvis, hip and knee mobilization to create better joint function.  Manual Therapy to help decrease pain and alleviate soft tissue stress allowing the muscles, tendons, ligaments to heal properly.  Stability and strength work to help build and support muscle, tendon, and joint function.  And finally, include proper self-care education for the individual to work on managing this issue themselves.