How to treat a groin pull
Check out this answer from Consensus:
Treating a groin pull involves a range of options from conservative methods like rest, ice, and active exercises to more invasive surgical procedures. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s response to initial therapies. While conservative treatments are effective for many, surgical options such as adductor tenotomy and denervation with fasciotomy offer promising results for chronic and severe cases. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.
By understanding the various treatment options and their efficacy, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions to ensure optimal recovery and return to activity.
Groin pulls, also known as groin strains, are common injuries, particularly among athletes. They involve the tearing or overstretching of the adductor muscles located in the inner thigh. Treatment for a groin pull can vary depending on the severity of the injury. This article will explore various treatment options, including conservative methods and surgical interventions, supported by recent research findings.
Conservative Treatments
Rest and Ice
The initial treatment for a groin pull typically involves rest and the application of ice to reduce swelling and pain. Resting the affected area prevents further injury and allows the muscles to begin the healing process.
Active Exercises
Active exercises are a cornerstone of conservative treatment for groin pulls. These exercises aim to strengthen the adductor muscles and improve flexibility. According to a systematic review, there is moderate evidence that active exercises are more effective than passive treatments in improving outcomes for athletes with adductor-related groin pain2.
Multimodal Treatment
Multimodal treatment, which combines various therapeutic approaches, has also shown promise. This can include manual therapy techniques, physical therapy, and specific exercise regimens. The same systematic review found moderate evidence that multimodal treatment can shorten the time to return to sports compared to active exercises alone2.
Surgical Treatments
Adductor Tenotomy
For chronic or severe cases of groin pull, surgical intervention may be necessary. Adductor tenotomy, a procedure that involves cutting the tendon of the adductor muscle, has been shown to improve treatment success over time. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who do not respond to conservative treatments2.
Denervation and Adductor Fasciotomy
A more advanced surgical option involves the denervation of the periosteal origin of the adductor muscles in conjunction with an adductor fasciotomy. This procedure aims to reduce pain and improve function by addressing the nerve supply to the affected muscles. A study involving 12 patients with refractory groin pull found that 92% of patients experienced pain relief and improved daily activities following this surgery. The study concluded that denervation combined with fasciotomy could be an effective treatment for chronic groin pull injuries1.
Surgery for Sportsman’s Hernia
For athletes suffering from sportsman’s hernia, a condition often associated with groin pain, surgical treatment has been found to be more effective than conservative methods. The systematic review highlighted moderate evidence supporting the efficacy of surgical intervention for this specific condition2.