Please note: Our Online Booking tool is currently down, please contact us on 0330 088 7800 to arrange your appointment and we will honour any online booking discount.

 

  • Book now

we work with

  • Individuals

  • Solicitors

  • Case
    Managers

  • Intermediaries

  • Organisations

  • Health
    Professionals

 

  • Our Clinics

 

  • Contact us

Close Icon

What is a groin strain?



A groin strain (or adductor muscle strain) is a tear in one of the muscles on the inside of the thigh. Physiotherapy is important for the treatment of a groin strain.


Soft tissue massage of the muscles and connective tissues around the groin by an experienced therapistAbove: Soft tissue massage of the muscles and connective tissues around the groin by an experienced therapist



How does a groin strain happen?



A groin strain is usually caused by overstretching and/or powerful contraction of the muscles in the groin. This commonly occurs if you change direction sharply when running.


What are the symptoms of a groin strain?



Sudden pain is felt along the inside of the thigh or the groin region when a groin muscle is torn. You may also experience a ‘tearing’ sensation. In minor tears, the pain often worsens significantly following participation as bleeding and swelling occurs around the injured muscle. Other symptoms include:


Passive stretch of the muscles and connective tissues of the hip and groin by specialist therapistAbove: Passive stretch of the muscles and connective tissues of the hip and groin by specialist therapist



What should I do if I have a strained a groin muscle?



For the first 24 – 48 hours the RICE regime should be followed (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).The RICE regime helps reduce bleeding and swelling in and around the muscle and, therefore limits the amount of damage to it. Rest involves limiting the amount of weight you put through the injured leg. With a severe tear crutches may be required. Ice should be applied to the injured site, using a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a damp cloth, for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours. Compression should be firm but not so tight as to cause pain. It can be applied using an elasticated bandage. Finally, the leg should be elevated comfortably on a chair or pillows, preferably so that the injured site is above the level of the heart. You should arrange an initial assessment with a physiotherapist as soon as possible following your injury. The RICE regime should be continued until you see your physiotherapist.


Physiotherapy treatment for a groin muscle strain.



Physiotherapy is very important in the effective treatment of a groin strain. Initially, your physiotherapist can determine the exact tissue/s damaged, the extent of the damage and determine a time scale for complete recovery. Your physiotherapist may use a number of treatment techniques to reduce your pain and swelling, and accelerate the healing of the damaged structures. These techniques include:


Progressive strengthening hip exercises supervised by experienced therapistAbove: Progressive strengthening hip exercises supervised by experienced therapist



What shouldn’t I do if I have strained a groin muscle?



In the first few days following your injury, you should avoid hot showers, groin stretching, heat rubs, massage, the consumption of alcohol and excessive activity. This is because these activities can increase blood flow to the area and, therefore, prolong muscle bleeding causing increased pain and an extended recovery.


Could there be any long-term effects from an adductor muscle strain?



The majority of groin strains heal without complication within weeks. However, depending on the severity of the injury and amount of damage, some injuries can cause longer-term effects. When a significant groin strain occurs, a number of other structures in the groin may also be injured. Injury to these structures can delay recovery. Recovery can also be delayed if the injury is not managed correctly. Incorrect management can cause tight, weak muscles in the groin that are more likely to be reinjured in the future.


Progressive strengthening hip exercises supervised by experienced therapistAbove: Progressive strengthening hip exercises supervised by experienced therapist



To arrange a physiotherapy assessment call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or book online.


Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Phone: 0330 088 7800
Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Mobile: 0330 088 7800
Email us on: office@physio.co.uk
Contact us by post: Our addresses
 
Get treated today!

We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.

Find out more »

We are open...

Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm

 
Find your nearest clinic

Physio.co.uk have clinics located throughout the North West.

Find out more »

Physiolates - Pilates in Manchester Massage.physio.co.uk - View our services