Groin Strain

A groin strain is a tear or stretch of the adductor muscles on the inner thigh. It is common in sports requiring rapid changes of direction such as soccer, hockey, and basketball.

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Typical Recovery Time

2-6 weeks

Symptoms

•Pain and tenderness in the inner thigh
•Pain when bringing legs together
•Swelling or bruising
•Weakness in the hip

Common Causes

•Sudden change of direction
•Overstretching
•Direct impact to the groin
•Poor hip flexibility

Treatment Options

1Rest and ice

2Compression shorts

3Physical therapy focusing on hip strengthening

4Gradual return to sport

5NSAIDs

When to See a Doctor

If pain is severe, you cannot walk, or symptoms do not improve within a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a groin strain?

A groin strain is a stretch or tear of the adductor muscles on the inner thigh. These muscles help bring the leg toward the body and stabilize the hip. It is common in sports with cutting, sprinting, or kicking.

What causes a groin strain?

It is often caused by sudden changes of direction, kicking, sprinting, or overstretching. Soccer, hockey, football, and basketball athletes are at higher risk. Weakness, tightness, or prior injury can increase recurrence.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include pain in the inner thigh or groin, tenderness, and pain with squeezing the legs together. Severe strains may cause bruising or weakness. Running, cutting, or kicking may be painful.

How is it treated?

Treatment includes rest from painful activity, gradual strengthening, flexibility work, and physical therapy. Rehab focuses on restoring adductor strength and hip control. Severe injuries may take longer and require closer evaluation.

When can I return to sports?

Return depends on pain-free strength, flexibility, and sport-specific movements. Mild strains may improve in a few weeks, while more severe strains take longer. Cutting and kicking should be reintroduced gradually.

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