A groin strain can be a frustrating injury for a number of athletes, and like all muscle strains and tears – it can also be very painful. To avoid getting groin strains, it’s first important to understand what this muscle group is and how they function.
The Adductor (groin) muscle group is located on the inside of the thigh. These muscles act to move your leg towards the midline of your body and help stabilize your hip during activity.
Groin strains occur when your groin muscles are stretched past their normal limit. There are different grades of injury ranging from a mild strain to a complete rupture of the muscle fibers. They are very common in sports that require explosive changing of direction or kicking, like soccer and hockey.
There are a number of factors that increase your risk of getting a groin muscle tear including weak and/or tight groin muscles, poor abdominal control and strength, and weakness in stabilizing the hip joint. By strengthening these muscles and joints you can help reduce your risk of a groin strain.
It’s natural to want to get back to normal as fast as possible. “How long will it take?” does depend on you, the situation, and the severity of your injury. In some cases you can return to sport or work within 2 weeks, in severe cases it can be 3 months. We’ve put together a guideline of expectations for you.
Minimal swelling
Walking not affected
Walking may be affected.
Possible limp and sudden twinges present
Intense pain – Increasing with activity
Walking severely affected
Surgery may be required in rare cases
Consult your physiotherapist if you are unsure about when to return to sport or other activities.
If you want to know more about how Proactive 4 Health can help with your rehabilitation, Book your appointment today or give us a call. We’ll help you get things moving how they should, faster and safer.