Fitness professionals generally place a big emphasis on stretching. Stretching can help to prepare you for workouts as well as reduce your risk of injury during a workout. However, when stretches are not performed properly, they can lead to injury. One common injury that occurs as the result of over- or under-stretching is a groin strain.
Overstretching
Never perform a stretch to the point where you are experiencing pain. Overstretching can lead to microscopic tearing in your muscle and connective tissue fibers. Mild tearing is likely to cause muscle soreness, stiffness and pain in your groin when you walk or participate in exercise or athletics. If you overstretch and continue to exercise or participate in sports, you can rupture or tear your groin muscles completely. This usually results in the need for immediate medical attention.
Under-Stretching
Failure to stretch prior to engaging in exercise or athletics can also lead to groin strains. Stretching is designed to loosen your joints, muscles and bones prior to engaging in any form of activity. Stretching prepares your body for the stress of physical activity. Under-stretching can result in muscle tightness or injury during physical activity.
Pain While Stretching
If you experience groin pain while stretching, it is very important to determine the cause of your pain before continuing with physical activity. If you have not worked out in a long time or have increased the intensity level of your training program, you are more likely to experience a mild degree of soreness. If you hear anything tear or pop while stretching, discontinue the exercise and contact a doctor immediately.
Groin Strains
Groin strains, or pulls, are an injury to the portion of the thigh that meets the pelvis. They commonly occur when the thigh is overstretched. The strain can occur at the the junction of the thigh tendon and muscles, which is 3 inches below your pelvis. The strain can also occur at the pelvic bone itself.
Treatment
Groin strains can normally be treated with home care, including the RICE method: rest, ice, compression and elevation. This can help to reduce pain and swelling. If pain persists for more than a few days, contact a medical professional, who will do a physical examination and possibly tale an x-ray in order to rule out bone damage. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and keeping weight off of your affected leg. Surgery may be required if you tore the groin completely.
References
- NASM: Essentials of Personal Fitness Training; National Academy of Sports Medicine; 2008
- ESPN Training Room: Groin Injuries
