Groin strain, an overuse injury to the muscle where the abdomen and thigh meet, is common among athletes who run or play sports, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Without a proper warm-up, the muscle fibers can tear and cause tenderness, swelling and muscle stiffness. Minor tears heal within a few days, but more severe injuries may require weeks of rest and rehabilitation. Individuals can avoid groin strains by stretching before and after exercising, alternating hard training days with easy days, and avoiding exercising while hurt or fatigued, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Rest
At the first sign of a muscle strain, the individual should stop what he is doing and rest, according to the "Handbook of First Aid and Emergency Care." Depending on the severity of the strain, he may need to rest the area for a week or longer. In some cases, crutches or a cane may be needed to assist the patient in walking without further injury to the groin, according to MayoClinic.com.
Heat and Cold Therapy
Ice helps to relieve pain and inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Ice can also improve healing and speed recovery. The "Handbook of First Aid and Emergency Care" recommends applying an ice pack or cold compress for 20 minutes every hour while awake during the first 24 hours; thereafter, warm compresses will be more effective.
Compression
Compression with an elastic bandage is helpful in treating muscle strains because it stops swelling and helps to reduce pain, according to MayoClinic.com. If the location of the strain makes it difficult to use an elastic bandage, the patient may need to substitute biking shorts or another compressive garment.
Medication
Over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen can be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, the patient should not use medication to allow him to continue exercising instead of resting, and should not take it for more than 2 weeks without consulting a health care provider. Analgesic balms applied to the skin may also help to relieve the pain.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sprains and Strains
- Mayo Clinic: Sprains and Strains
- "Handbook of First Aid and Emergency Care"; American Medical Association; 2009
- Family Doctor: Running: Preventing Overuse Injuries
