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Overview
Common in sports.
Hernias can feel similar.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonPain lasting weeks or a bulge.
Causes
Caused by sudden movement.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause groin pull. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Groin strainOften treated at home
A pulled muscle in the inner thigh, common in soccer, hockey, and running.
What you can do at home
- Rest.
- Ice.
Medicines
Physical therapy.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Injury
The exam
A groin exam.
Tests
- Imaging if needed
Prevention
Warm up.
- Stretch
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.