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Groin strain

Also called: Groin strain, pulled groin, adductor strain

A stretch or tear of the inner thigh (adductor) muscles from quick side-to-side moves, kicking, or skating. Most heal in a few weeks with rest and gradual strengthening.

Common inSoccer, hockey, football, dancers
Heals2 weeks to 2 months
Rule outHernia or hip problem

Overview

Pain is in the inner thigh near the groin and worse when squeezing the legs together.

Groin pain with a bulge, or that never improves, may be a hernia or hip joint problem.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pain in the inner thigh or groin
  • Groin pull

Less common

  • Bruising
  • Pain squeezing legs together

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA groin bulge, testicle pain or swelling, or severe pain after a fall.
See a doctor soonPain lasting more than 2 weeks.

Causes

Sudden side-to-side moves and tight muscles.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Athletes
  • Past groin strain

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Questions you may be asked

  • How it happened

The exam

Testing squeezing strength and hip motion.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Ultrasound or MRI: If severe or slow to heal.

Treatment

Rest, then rebuild.

Self-care

  • Rest from activities that hurt
  • Ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day
  • Raise the area when you can
  • Start gentle stretches once pain eases
  • Add squeeze and side-lunge exercises slowly
  • Return to sport only when pain-free

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • Warm up
  • Inner thigh strengthening

Which doctor treats this

  • Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
  • They may send you to a physical therapist, or a sports medicine doctor.
  • A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

  • School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
  • Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Outlook

Most heal fully.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Could this be a hernia?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Groin strain

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.