Groin pain can disrupt everything from your morning workout routine to simple, everyday movements like bending and walking. While this discomfort can be frustrating or even alarming, recognising the possible causes is the first step toward effective relief.
In females, groin pain often arises from muscular issues or structural changes that affect the ligaments and tendons in the pelvic region.
Below, we’ll explore two of the most common culprits – groin strains and sports hernias, and highlight why identifying the source of your discomfort matters.
Why groin pain happens
The groin area refers to the junction where the thigh meets the lower abdomen. It’s a complex region, home to multiple muscle groups that control hip and leg movements. For female athletes or anyone who exercises regularly, activities that require sudden changes in direction, intense stretching, or repetitive leg motions can put a significant strain on these muscles.
Of course, it’s not just athletes who experience groin pain. Everyday activities like lifting heavy objects or pivoting awkwardly, can also lead to injury if the muscles or surrounding tissue aren’t properly prepared or have been weakened by overuse.
Factors like hormonal fluctuations, biomechanical imbalances, and underlying medical conditions can further contribute to vulnerability in the groin region.
Understanding groin strains
A groin strain typically refers to a tear or overstretching in the adductor muscles located along the inner thigh. These muscles play a crucial role in stabilising your pelvis and aiding in hip movement. When they’re suddenly stretched beyond their capacity during a sprint or a swift pivot for example, they can partially tear, causing immediate pain and tenderness.
Common symptoms include a sharp or throbbing sensation in the inner thigh or groin, swelling, and difficulty performing movements like crossing your legs or bringing your knees together.
While mild strains often improve with rest, ice, and gentle stretching, more severe tears may need professional intervention such as physical therapy. Recognising and addressing a groin strain early is vital. Pushing through pain can turn a mild tear into a major one, which leads to a much longer recovery.
Understanding sports hernias
Despite the name, a sports hernia isn’t a traditional hernia. Instead, it’s a soft tissue injury in the lower abdomen or groin that often results from repetitive motions, like kicking, or sudden twisting movements that stress the area. Research shows there is a lower incidence of this injury in females, but it is not insignificant – especially those who participate in sports involving quick direction changes (like football, tennis, or hockey).
Unlike classic hernias, you won’t usually see a visible bulge in the area. Instead, the hallmark sign of a sports hernia is chronic pain that intensifies during specific activities. Over time, the discomfort may extend to the inner thigh or lower abdomen. However, chronic groin pain in women often overlaps with pelvic pain, and sports hernias can be mistaken with pelvic floor hernias including inguinal and femoral hernias.
Because sports hernias don’t always show up on basic imaging tests, diagnosis often requires a careful physical exam and possibly more advanced imaging like MRI. Treatment frequently involves rest, targeted physical therapy to strengthen core and pelvic muscles, and sometimes surgery if conservative measures fail.
When to seek help
While many groin injuries resolve with proper rest and rehabilitation, persistent or worsening pain is a signal that you might need professional treatment. If your groin pain lingers beyond a couple of weeks or worsens with regular activities, it’s wise to consult a doctor. Accompanying symptoms like numbness, a popping sensation in the groin, or fever, could point to an underlying infection or structural issue that needs prompt attention.
The key to handling groin pain, whether it’s a strain or a suspected sports hernia, is timely assessment and a tailored treatment plan.
A structured recovery programme and awareness of potential risk factors can help you stay active and minimise future setbacks.
If you are experiencing lingering groin pain, book an appointment with Mr Stellakis. After an initial consultation, he can recommend the best course of treatment.
