This is an injury to the muscles of the inner thigh, frequently seen in twisting and turning sports. These muscles not only move the legs together and apart, but also assist with the movement of the hip. These muscles are important for dynamic and direction-changing sports like soccer or rugby. When a muscle is stretched too far, this is commonly referred to as a muscle strain. Occasionally strains are accompanied by small tears in the muscle fibers. Because of this, groin injuries can be painful and prevent a footballer from playing, so players should be evaluated for proper treatment. Constant pain in this area, whether you’re walking or resting, could be a sign that you have a groin strain.
Recommended rehab exercise: It is important to consult either a physiotherapist or a biokineticist to receive correct advice and exercises. Once the injury moves out of the acute phase – roughly 48 hours – Deep Heat Rub, a fast acting painkiller that is rapidly absorbed by the skin and produces gentle warmth, can be used. The use of Deep Heat helps to stimulate circulation, relax stiffness and get oxygen back into tense, painful tissues and muscles. Rest from painful exercise or movement is essential in the early injury stage.
Estimated time of recovery: Depends on the grade of the strain, but normally six to eight weeks.
How to prevent this injury from recurring: Once pain in movement improves, it is important to begin general strengthening of the front upper thigh (the quads), the upper back leg muscles (the hamstrings), as well as the calf muscles. Light stretching can also be done.
Article written by EPT – The Ultimate Sports Recovery Experts