• Pain or tenderness along the inner thigh or groin
• Swelling in the inner thigh
• Bruising that may appear within two days
• A popping feeling or sound at the moment of injury
• Pain that gets worse with activity and may cause limping
• Muscle tightness or spasms in the groin area
• Pain when bringing your legs together or pushing them apart

• A sudden sharp pull or pop in the groin during a quick movement
• Aching or tightness along the inner thigh when walking or squeezing your legs together
• Worsening pain when you try to run or change direction

• Sports with repeated kicking or fast direction changes like soccer or football
• Activities needing sudden sprints or jumping like hockey, gymnastics, or track
• Not warming up or stretching enough before practice
• Lack of strength and flexibility training
• Previous injuries to the thigh, knee, or pelvis

• Did you feel a sudden pop in your groin during a sprint, kick, or quick turn?
• Does it hurt to bring your legs together or spread them apart?
• Is there tenderness or swelling along your inner thigh?

Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.

1. 1Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes every 2 to 3 hours to bring down swelling
2. 2Elevate your leg above heart level when possible
3. 3Use an elastic bandage or compression sleeve for support
4. 4Rest from activities that worsen the pain, and consider crutches if limping is bad

• Symptoms that get worse or don’t improve after two weeks of care
• New or unexplained symptoms developing during recovery

• Work with a physical therapist or athletic trainer on strengthening and flexibility exercises
• Use heat for 10 to 15 minutes before gentle stretching once the initial swelling is gone
• Fully complete your rehab program before returning to your sport
• Maintain good overall conditioning and warm up properly to prevent reinjury