Groin Injury

Groin injury treatment for sport-related groin pain, adductor complaints and a gradual return to football or running

Groin Injury
5/5(479 reviews)

What is it?

Groin injury is an umbrella term for pain around the groin, usually caused by overuse or an acute strain of the adductors (the muscles on the inside of your thigh). Groin pain is common among footballers, runners and other athletes who do a lot of sprinting, twisting or kicking. Symptoms can build up gradually during sport, or appear suddenly after one awkward movement, for example during a sprint or a shot on goal.

Because the groin is a complex area where muscles, tendons, joints and nerves sit close together, it isn't always immediately clear where the pain is coming from. Adductor tendinopathy (an overloaded tendon attachment), a muscle strain, or an interplay with the hip joint can all play a role. At Physical Studio we first map out exactly what type of groin injury you're dealing with, before setting up a treatment plan.

Because every physiotherapist on our team is also a personal trainer, we can combine a careful build-up of load with strength training, aimed at a durable return to your sport.

Common causes

  • Overuse of the adductors from too rapid an increase in training intensity
  • Acute strain during sprinting, changing direction or kicking (common in football)
  • Insufficient strength or stability in the hip and pelvic muscles
  • An imbalance between adductor strength and core strength
  • Too little recovery time between intensive training sessions or matches
  • A previous groin injury that wasn't fully rehabilitated
  • Limited hip mobility, which places extra load on the groin
  • A running technique or movement pattern that overloads the groin area

How we diagnose

We start with a thorough intake in which we map out your symptoms, sports load and history. This is followed by a movement assessment looking at strength, mobility and stability of the hip, pelvis and trunk, to determine which structures are contributing to your groin pain. Where clinically relevant, we use ultrasound to assess the adductor tendon and surrounding structures and to rule out other causes. With VALD Force Decks we objectively measure the strength of your adductors and compare left and right, so we can base your training build-up on data rather than assumptions.

Treatment approach

Treatment of a groin injury at Physical Studio focuses on a gradual, well-substantiated build-up of load. We combine exercise therapy for strength and stability of the adductors, hip and trunk with manual therapy where this can help reduce tension and improve mobility. You'll receive a training schedule that increases in intensity step by step, tailored to what your body can handle at that stage. Where needed, we adjust the build-up based on how your symptoms respond. Because your physiotherapist is also your personal trainer, the transition from rehabilitation to sport-specific training runs smoothly, without having to switch practitioners.

Expected recovery

Recovery from a groin injury varies significantly from person to person and depends on the nature and duration of your symptoms. A mild overload can noticeably improve within a few weeks, while adductor tendinopathy often requires a process of several months, since tendons tend to heal more slowly than muscle tissue. Many athletes find that a gradual, consistent build-up of load contributes to a more stable recovery than returning to full load too quickly. We'll discuss a realistic estimate for your situation during the intake.

When to seek help

Contact your GP if your groin pain is accompanied by significant swelling, a visible deformity, fever, or if you're unable to bear any weight on your leg at all. The same applies if the pain starts suddenly and very severely, for example with an audible pop, or if the symptoms radiate to your lower abdomen or groin area alongside other complaints. If in doubt, your GP is always the first step to rule out more serious causes. For persistent or recurring groin pain without these warning signs, you can come to us directly without a referral.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a groin injury take to heal?
That depends on the nature and duration of your symptoms. A mild overload can improve within a few weeks, while adductor tendinopathy often takes several months. A targeted build-up of load can contribute to a more stable recovery than returning to sport too soon.
Can I keep playing sport with groin pain?
It varies by situation. With mild symptoms, modified training may sometimes be possible, while acute or severe pain usually calls for rest. We assess what's sensible for your groin during the intake and set up a build-up schedule that matches your recovery.
Could my groin pain be coming from my hip?
It's possible. The groin and hip sit close together, and issues with the hip joint can present as groin pain. That's why our movement assessment always looks at the hip too, so we can identify the actual source of your symptoms.
Why is my groin healing so slowly?
Tendons, like the adductor tendon, generally heal more slowly than muscle tissue because they have less blood supply. Returning to full load too quickly can slow recovery further. A gradual, well-structured build-up of load is usually more effective than waiting it out or pushing through.
What's the difference between a strain and adductor tendinopathy?
A strain usually happens acutely, for example during a sprint, and involves muscle tissue. Adductor tendinopathy builds up gradually from overloading the tendon attachment. The approach differs, so an accurate diagnosis matters before you start training.
Do I need a referral for a groin injury?
No, at Physical Studio you can come to us for physiotherapy without a GP referral. We'll schedule an intake to assess your symptoms and determine which approach fits.
Is ultrasound needed for a groin injury?
Not always, but it can be valuable for assessing the adductor tendon in detail and ruling out other causes. We use ultrasound where clinically relevant, as part of a broader assessment.
Is treatment for a groin injury covered by insurance?
Physiotherapy for a groin injury is typically covered under supplementary insurance, not the basic policy. Coverage depends on your specific policy. Check your policy or use the insurance checker on our site to see what applies to you.

Related conditions

Back Pain

Back Pain

Lower back pain, herniated disc, and other back conditions

Neck Pain

Neck Pain

Neck pain caused by strain or poor posture, whiplash, or radiating symptoms.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder Pain

Frozen shoulder, impingement and rotator cuff issues

Knee Pain

Knee Pain

ACL injuries, meniscus and patellofemoral conditions

Does this sound familiar? Book an appointment.

Our physiotherapists are happy to help you with a personalized treatment plan.

Book an appointment+31 20 782 82 82