Groin Pull or Strain

What Is A Groin (Adductor) Injury? The adductors are fan-like muscles in the upper thigh that pull the legs together when they contract. The adductors attach the lower inner aspect of the pelvis to the inner aspect of the femur bone. Some adductors attach as far down as the knee. The adductors also help stabilize the hip joint. The most common cause of groin pain is a muscle strain. A strained adductor muscle causes localized pain in the inner thigh, or over the pubis. A severe tear is causes a sudden, acute pain and often occurs during a sudden change of direction while running. It may be accompanied by swelling and sometimes bruises.

 
What Causes A Groin Pull?

The most common cause of a groin strain occurs when a muscle is stretched too far or meets an unexpected opposing force.
This can result from the quick starts and stops of kicking and running sports. These injuries are especially common in soccer but are also seen in racket sports, basketball, hockey, volleyball, and football. Common symptoms are acute pain, swelling, and, occasionally, bruising of the inner thigh. There is also pain to the touch, pain with resistance movements, and pain with passive stretching of the inner thigh and hamstrings.
What Is The Treatment For A Groin Pull?

For immediate relief, follow the R.I.C.E. treatment plan. Rest, Ice, Compression and elevation are the best immediate treatment for all pulls and strains. Avoid aggravating activities for the first 1 to 2 weeks. Once activity is started again, ice the muscle after exercise to reduce any swelling. After applying the ice, wrap the thigh to keep it compressed. An anti-inflammatory can be helpful to reduce pain and inflammation for the first 7 to 10 days after the injury.
When inflammation subsides, you can start a stretching program. A strengthening program consisting initially of low-intensity exercises should be started after the stretching phase.

If running is continued during recovery, avoid hill or sprint work. Pay attention to signs of pain or increased tenderness, and reduce exercise if any develops. Proper stretching of the quadriceps is essential. Stretch gently, but thoroughly. Never force a stretch. Following these guidelines will generally allow a return to activity within two or three weeks.

How Can I Prevent A Groin Pull?

Proper warm up and stretching is key to injury prevention. Stretch the Adductors by sitting with the soles of the feet together and gently press knees to the floor until stretch is felt on the inner thighs. Hip Flexor stretching (step into a lunge position until stretch is felt along the upper thigh) can also help prevent muscle strains.
Additionally, gradually increasing time, and intensity of activity can prevent overuse and trauma to the working muscles. Muscle strength, and proper biomechanics during activity can also reduce the risk of muscle strains.

From Elizabeth Quinn,

 

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