Groin aches occur in the area where the upper leg and abdomen join together. The muscles or tendons may tear suddenly or become inflamed over time through overuse, according to MayoClinic.com. Most groin aches respond to conservative treatment such as rest, over-the-counter medication and ice therapy, although a condition called Gilmore's groin may require more specialized treatment, according to Sports Injury Clinic.
Groin Strain
A tear or rupture to any of the adductor muscles--the muscles that pull the legs together--causes mild to severe pain in the groin depending on the degree of damage, according to Sports Injury Clinic. Other symptoms include stiff or weak adductor muscles, bruising or a popping sensation in the muscle when it tears. Athletes often suffer groin strains when they sprint, kick a ball or change directions rapidly. Groin strains can also occur gradually over time when individuals exercise without warming up.
Adductor Muscle and Tendon Inflammation
Inflammation of the tendons that attach the adductor muscles to the bones can occur after a groin strain or through overuse, according to Sports Injury Clinic. Symptoms may include groin pain that radiates down the leg, and problems running or changing direction suddenly.
Iliopsoas Muscle Inflammation
The iliopsoas muscle, used to lift the knee, runs between the lower back and the femur, or thigh bone, according to Sports Injury Clinic. Performing sit-ups with a weight behind the neck or running uphill can cause inflammation in the iliopsoas muscle and tendon, resulting in groin pain when the knee is lifted to the chest, tightness and swelling in the groin. Sometimes the pain disappears during exercise and returns when the athlete rests.
Gilmore's Groin
The symptoms of Gilmore's groin, also known as sportsman's hernia, include groin pain that worsens when running, twisting, turning or sprinting; stiffness and soreness after training; and groin pain the day after training associated with turning, coughing, sneezing or getting out of a car, according to Sports Injury Clinic. Sports that strain the groin and pelvic area, including soccer and football, can damage the muscles that support the transverse abdominus muscle in the groin. A more complex injury than a groin strain, Gilmore's groin may require treatment by a surgeon or sports rehabilitation specialist.
