GroinStrain

A groin strain, commonly referred to as a groin pull, is a stretch or tear of the groin muscles, most often the adductor group on the inner thigh. It typically results from sudden movements, overuse, or overstretching during athletic activity.

Symptoms usually include a sudden sharp pain in the groin or inner thigh, tenderness, tightness, swelling, and sometimes weakness or instability in the affected leg. Pain is often exacerbated by running, kicking, or bringing the legs together against resistance.

Causes are often linked to high-intensity sports that involve rapid acceleration, cutting, twisting, or kicking. Risk factors include prior groin injuries, fatigue, inadequate warm-up, muscle imbalances between the adductors and abductors, poor flexibility, and insufficient strength.

Diagnosis relies on a clinical history and physical examination. Imaging such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to assess the extent of muscle injury and to exclude other conditions, particularly if pain persists or if return-to-play decisions are involved.

Treatment and rehabilitation begin with conservative measures. The initial phase typically uses the RICE approach (rest, ice, compression, elevation) and, when appropriate, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A graduated rehabilitation program with physical therapy focusing on hip adductor strength, core stability, and gradual ROM and loading is recommended. A gradual return to sport is guided by pain levels and functional tests.

Prognosis varies with injury severity. Most mild groin strains heal in two to six weeks, but more severe strains or tears may take longer and carry a higher risk of recurrence. Prevention emphasizes proper warm-up, balanced strength training for the thigh and hip muscles, flexibility work, and attention to technique and fatigue management.