The three muscles within the upper region of the inner thigh form the groin. People who overuse or damage the groin during physical exercise or direct trauma can develop a groin injury. Groin injury signs and symptoms can be uncomfortable and should be discussed with a medical professional if they occur.
Groin or Leg Pain
Pain within the upper thigh is the most common symptom of a groin injury. Sensations of pain may be most apparent when a person tries to pull the legs together or lift the knee of the affected leg, The Sports Medicine Patient Advisor explains. Initially, pain and tenderness may be localized to the inner thigh but can also extend down the thigh into the calf or foot. Groin or leg pain can be exacerbated by putting weight on the affected leg or attempting to walk about normally.
Skin Discoloration or Bruising
Damage to the tissues that surround the groin muscles can cause skin discoloration symptoms in injured people, Aurora Healthcare explains. A bruise is a collection of blood that forms immediately beneath the surface of the skin following blood vessel damage. Affected people may observe that the skin surrounding the site of groin injury appears dark red, purple or blue in color. Skin discoloration or bruising due to a groin injury are temporary and resolve as the damaged skin begins to heal.
Hip or Groin Weakness or Stiffness
An injury to the groin interferes with the ability of the groin muscles to contract and relax normally. Groin muscle damage also results in severe muscle inflammation, which can lead to symptoms of hip or groin weakness or stiffness. People who develop these symptoms following a groin injury can have difficulty standing or walking without assistance. A groin injury may also make it difficult for people to lift or extend the affected leg. Sensations of weakness or stiffness within the hip or groin are temporary and resolve after the muscles fully heal.
Popping Sound
At the time of groin injury, people can notice a popping sound or may experience a snapping sensation within the groin region. The popping sound occurs when the groin muscles rip or tear apart during trauma. People who notice a popping or snapping sound or sensation can also experience severe or acute pain within the groin.
