Often considered to be sports-related, groin injuries are among the most common and nagging injuries among men, according to MayoClinic.com. The groin is the area where the upper thigh meets the lower abdomen; an area vulnerable to injuries such as pulls or strains, hernia or those caused by direct impact, illness or medical conditions. The pain associated with groin injuries may be immediate or gradually appear weeks or months after initial injury.
Groin Pull or Strain
The most common type of groin injury is a pull or strain of the groin muscle. According to AuroraHealthcare.org, a groin pull is a tear in the adductor muscles, which start in the groin and run down the thigh. Pulls or strains in the groin occur when the muscles are overused, stretched beyond normal limits or injured by direct impact. Groin pulls are commonly associated with sports that require explosive speed and directional chances. Groin pulls can cause pain, stiffness and bruising in the groin region.
Inguinal Hernia
Chronic pain in the groin may indicate another common groin injury, inguinal hernia. MedlinePlus defines an inguinal hernia as a sac, or bulge, that forms as a result of hole or tear in a weak area of the fascia. According to MayoClinic.com, the bulge associated with an inguinal hernia is usually the intestine protruding through the lower abdominal wall. While hernias are not dangerous, they tend to be very painful, especially when lifting heavy objects, sneezing or coughing. Hernias can only be repaired with surgery.
Other Causes of Groin Injury
Injuries to the groin also occur as a result of direct impact to the area. These injuries often result from a blow to the groin or the area surrounding the groin, including the testicles. Direct impact to the groin often results in severe pain and swelling; severe injuries may be accompanied by the presence of blood in the urine.
MayoClinic.com reports that perceived injuries to the groin may be an indication of other underlying medical conditions. Medical conditions that may cause symptoms similar to those found in groin injuries include kidney stones, bursitis, pinched nerves, swollen lymph nodes, testicular torsion and urinary tract infections.
