Physiotherapy Advice

It is the bane of many an athlete’s sporting life: the dreaded groin strain. Common in hockey, skiing, football, and track and field, groin strains involve one or more of the muscles of the inner thigh. There are six groin, or adductor, muscles running along the inside of the leg from the pelvis to the thigh bone. A strain occurs when one or more of these muscles is torn. Strains are classified as Grade 1 to 3, with Grade 1 being mild (involving only a small number of muscle fibres) and Grade 3 being severe (complete muscle tear). Strains are then sub classified as acute or chronic. Acute strains usually result from traumatic injuries. Left untreated, or inadequately treated, these can become chronic strains, which are more difficult to resolve. Other causes for chronic groin strains include muscle imbalances and repeated poor movement patterns. Muscle imbalances causing groin strains can also develop in non-athletes, especially those who sit for prolonged periods of time. Signs and symptoms of groin strains include pain and weakness with movements where the thigh moves toward the body or the knee lifts, pain with stretching the inner thigh, and, in the case of an acute injury, bruising and/or swelling. Early intervention by a Physiotherapist can help to reduce pain and speed recovery.

Physiotherapy is effective in treating mild and moderate groin strains; surgery is required for Grade 3 strains. In the case of a Grade 3 strain, post-surgical Physiotherapy can speed recovery and improve return to function. Regardless of the grade or chronicity of your injury, you Physiotherapist will begin with a thorough assessment, including a detailed biomechanical analysis. He or she will then work with you to develop your unique treatment plan and goals. Treatments often include therapeutic mobilization, stretching and strengthening exercises, and activity-specific training exercises.

At Keystone Physiotherapy we are highly experienced with treating groin strains. Our therapists work with you to achieve your goals. We offer early morning and evening appointments, allowing you to work around busy schedules. Call us today and get back into peak condition!