Groin injuries are typically a result of damage done to one of three different muscles, known as the adductor brevis, magnus and longus. These muscles work to bring the legs back towards the midline. Groin injuries can range in severity from slight stretching and inflammation of these muscles to a complete muscle tear; there are many different treatment options for groin injuries, depending on the severity of the muscle damage.
R.I.C.E.
One of the most commonly used treatments for groin injuries is a combination of rest, ice, compression and elevation, commonly known as R.I.C.E. The rest portion of this treatment strategy is extremely important, the Sports Injury Bulletin explains. As soon as possible, the injured groin muscles should be elevated above the level of the heart, which can be done by lifting and supporting the leg on the side of the injury. Ice or cold compresses should also be applied to affected muscles. Sports Injury Bulletin recommends filling a Styrofoam cup with water and then putting the cup in a freezer. Once the water is frozen, the ice can be taken out and rubbed on the injured area for 12 minute intervals, with a 20-minute break between applications. Ice or cold compresses should be applied several times a day for maximal effectiveness.
Compression can also be done by wrapping an elastic bandage around the upper portion of the affected leg, Aurora Health Care explains. The combination of rest, ice, compression and elevation is an important aspect of treatment for all groin injuries and may be sufficient for patients who have only mild groin pulls.
Pain Medications
Groin injuries can be very painful; consequently, medications to help relieve pain may be needed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often recommended because they can reduce inflammation and swelling in addition to relieving pain. Ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen are all good choices for groin injuries, FreeMD explains. For more severe pain, patients may need to take narcotic pain relievers.
Massage
Gentle massage, Sports Injury Bulletin reports, can be useful for moderate groin injuries. The massage should begin on the outer areas of the injury, which are typically less discolored and gradually work towards the center and most affected region of the groin. This can help speed recovery and can also relieve some of the discoloration; the massage should be gentle, however, because the muscles are fragile and can be easily damaged during the healing process.
Surgery
Severe groin injuries may involve the complete rupture of an adductor muscle or the avulsion of a muscle's tendon from its bone attachment. In both cases, surgery may be needed, the website Sports Injury Clinic advises. The surgery will either repair the torn muscle or can help reattach the tendon to its proper location on the leg or pelvic bones, allowing it to function again. Severe groin injuries may not heal properly without surgery, so if a severe groin strain is suspected a MRI may be indicated to determine if an operation is needed.
