How to Take Care of a Pulled Groin

A pulled groin can be one of the most painful and most difficult injuries to care for. Typically, a pulled groin occurs when the adductor longus, the long muscle on the inside of the thigh, is overstretched and sometimes torn. The pull or tear usually occurs about three inches below the pelvis where the tendon and muscle connect. Groin injuries such as a pulled groin are usually cared for conservatively through rest, ice, heat and pain relievers.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Heating pad
• Over-the-counter medications

Instructions

1. Rest is the easiest and also the most important thing you can do for your pulled groin. Take a one to two-week break from any physical activity that may prevent the groin from healing or slow down the healing process.

2. Take over the counter medication such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to help relieve the pain.

3. Apply an ice pack to the pulled groin which will reduce pain and swelling. Apply the ice pack at least three times a day for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. If you have a bag of frozen vegetables in your freezer, it can be used as an alternative to an ice pack.

4. Apply heat to the pulled groin when the swelling subsides. Use a heating pad on the injured groin two times a day for 45 minutes. This will help relieve pain and loosen the groin muscles which will help speed up the recovery process.

5. Begin stretching exercises on the pulled groin muscles twice a day when you feel it can be done without pain. Do not overdo the stretching as it could slow down the healing process.

6. Resume physical activity only if pain has subsided or after being cleared by your doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. Groin injuries can sometimes take up to six weeks to completely heal.

• Wear boxer briefs instead of boxers to help support the injured groin.

References

• Groin Injuries and Problems