How to Treat Groin Injury
Groin injuries are usually the result of a tear in the fibers of the adductor muscles. These muscles begin in the groin and extend down the inside of the thighs to the knees. Runners, tennis players, dancers and other who engage in intense stretching movements are susceptible to groin injury. Treating a strain in this area is relatively simple but does take time to heal properly.
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Things You'll Need
- Compression bandage
- Tape
- Therapist
- Over-the-counter medications
- Crutches
- Surgery
Instructions
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Follow the "R.I.C.E." method directly following an injury to the groin. The technique is to rest the area, ice it, put on a compression bandage and elevate the lower half of the body.
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Tape the groin area the day following a groin injury. Make it tight enough to take pressure off the area but not so tight as to inhibit circulation.
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Stretch the muscles after a day of the R.I.C.E. method and after taping the area. Do not overextend but rather gently stretch the area for a few moments. Repeat a few times during the day as comfortable.
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Schedule a session with a therapist trained in sports injury. You may need therapeutic massage on the area and the therapist will be able to direct you on exercises to perform at home while healing.
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Apply ice or heat after groin injury exercises. For relief of soreness it is helpful to apply a compress of ice or a heat wrap following exercise. You may alternate ice and heat for best relief.
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See a physician for further treatment if your groin continues to be bothersome after two weeks or if the pain is extreme at any time. The doctor may inject anesthetic to help with pain or a corticosteroid to alleviate inflammation.
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Consider surgery if your physician assesses you have a large tear and would benefit by the procedure. If the muscle is completely torn an operation may be your only recompense.
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Tips & Warnings
Take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen to help with inflammation and pain.
Walk with crutches or another device to take pressure off the groin area and allow it to heal.
Always warm up by stretching your adductor muscles to avoid problems with the groin area in the future.
Do not go back to strenuous physical activity too soon. It can take up to three months for a full tear to completely heal. Consult a sports injury specialist regarding how to safely build up your adductor muscles.
