Groin pain refers to any discomfort experienced in the area where your abdomen meets your legs. While it is more common in athletes, anyone can experience this type of pain.

Groin pain can range from mild to severe, and it can be caused by various factors.

Common Causes of Groin Pain

Here are some common causes of groin pain:.

Strain or injury: The most common cause of groin pain is a strain or injury to your groin muscles, which can happen from playing sports or undertaking physical activities that involve quick direction changes, such as soccer or football.
Hernia: Hernias occur when the tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weakened spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue. Inguinal hernias are the most common cause of groin pain in adults.
Fracture or dislocation: A hip fracture or dislocation can cause pain to radiate down into the groin region.
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, which is a type of arthritis caused by wear and tear of the joints, can cause hip or knee pain that radiates to the groin.
Pinched nerves: A pinched nerve in the lower back can cause radiating pain that extends into the groin.
Kidney stones: Passing a kidney stone can cause intense, sharp pain in the lower abdomen that radiates to the groin.

Signs and Symptoms of Groin Pain

Groin pain can manifest in different ways, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common signs and symptoms of groin pain:.

Pain: Pain is the most common symptom of groin pain, which can range from a dull ache to sharp pain.
Tenderness: The affected area may feel tender to the touch.
Swelling or lump: In cases of hernia, you may notice a swelling or lump in the affected area.
Difficulty moving the hip or leg: In cases of severe strain or injury, you may experience difficulty moving the hip or leg, with limping or discomfort when walking.
Bruising: If there is a severe injury, you may notice bruising in the affected area.
Numbness or tingling: If the pain is caused by a pinched nerve, you may experience numbness or tingling in the groin area or down the leg.

When to See a Doctor

If your symptoms persist or worsen over time, it’s essential to see a doctor to diagnose the underlying cause of your groin pain. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:.

Fever: If you have a fever accompanied by groin pain, it may be a sign of an infection and requires urgent medical attention.
Severe pain: If the pain is so severe that you can’t move or function normally, it’s best to seek immediate medical care.
Inability to pass urine: If you experience difficulty urinating or can’t urinate at all, it may be a sign of a urinary blockage and requires urgent medical attention.
A bulge in the groin area that can’t be pushed back in: If you notice a bulge in the groin area that can’t be pushed back in, it may be a sign of a hernia that requires medical attention.

Treatment Options for Groin Pain

The treatment for groin pain depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:.

Rest: In cases of mild strain or injury, rest is the best treatment. Avoid activities that aggravate the pain and give the muscles time to heal.
Cold and heat therapy: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can be helpful in cases of severe strain or injury to improve flexibility and strength in the affected area.
Hernia repair surgery: In cases of hernia, surgery may be required to repair the weakened muscle or tissue.
Alternative therapies: Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture or chiropractic, may help manage pain and improve mobility.