Hockey is a fast paced, high impact sport. Playing hockey with any injury can be a difficult and painful task -- including playing with a groin pull. A groin pull often occur as the result of jumping, rapid changes in direction or sudden acceleration or deceleration. A groin pull can cause pain, limited range of motion and swelling in the upper thigh area. A groin pull can range from mild to severe. Recovery from a groin pull depends largely on the severity of the injury, your fitness level and age. Playing hockey with a groin pull is not recommended.
Step 1
Employ the RICE method. Rest, icing, compression and elevation of your affected groin muscle can help reduce your symptoms and get you back on the ice.
Step 2
Visit with your doctor. The severity of your groin injury will be a deciding factor in how long you will not be permitted to play hockey. Groin pulls are diagnosed with a physical examination. An MRI may be required if your doctor feels you may have a severe pull or have completely ruptured a muscle.
Step 3
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you are not permitted to play hockey, do not do so until you are cleared by your doctor. Ask your doctor what types of physical activity you may be allowed to participate in -- if any.
Step 4
Attend physical therapy. A physical therapist can instruct you on how to perform exercises to strengthen and improve range of motion and flexibility in your affected groin. Lunges, squats and hamstring stretches can help you recover from a groin pull. A physical therapist may also use ultrasounds and massages to help stimulate muscle recovery.
Step 5
Test your groin strength. Your hockey team's training staff may conduct an evaluation for return to practice. You may be required to complete a 10 yard dry land, figure eight run at full speed. You should also be able to jump on your injured leg without feeling pain.
Tips and Warnings
- When you are permitted to return to the ice, begin skating and completing drills. Avoid contact and playing in games until you are 100 percent pain free.
- Failure to follow your doctor's instructions may lead to increased time sidelined and more severe injury to your groin.
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