Groin Strain

 

Summary

Groin strains are usually caused by overstretching when running or kicking a ball. Groin strains may also be the result of a sudden change in direction. Some movement patterns such as kicking, when repeated with little to no rest can lead to an overuse of the adductor muscles, this leads to inflammation and discomfort of the groin. Depending on the severity of the strain you may feel some discomfort towards the top of your inner thigh. You may also find it uncomfortable to pull your leg against resistance and in some cases, you may notice some bruising or swelling around the upper thigh. In most cases a groin strain will be diagnosed through a physical assessment, but MRI imaging may also be required to determine the severity of the strain or confirm the diagnosis. Groin strains usually take between 4-6 weeks to recover and in some cases a further 2 weeks to regain full fitness, in severe cases where surgical intervention is required it may take between 3-6 months for a full rehabilitation.

 

Rehabilitation

Early stage

  • Deep water pool jogging

  • Gentle stretching of the Quadriceps and Hamstrings

  • Low level core stability exercises

  • Isometric adductor squeezes (10 x 10 at 90° knee flexion)

Intermediate stage

  • Squats and single leg body weight squats (4 x 20)

  • Upper body strength training (caution not to overuse adductor muscles)

  • Body weight step ups (4 x 6)

  • Adductor pulley or exercise band work (4 x 15-20)

Late stage

  • Barbell squats at 50% 1RM (4 x 8 -12)

  • Barbell deadlifts at 50% 1RM (4 x 8 – 12)

  • Walk-jog drills (aim for 10 pitch lengths)

  • High level core stability exercises

Return to sport

  • Single leg vertical and horizontal hops

  • Speed drills

  • Barbell squats at 80% 1RM (4 x 8 – 12)

  • Barbell deadlifts at 80% 1RM (4 x 8 – 12)

  • Complete a t-test in 11 seconds