Adductor Tendinopathy (Groin Pain)
What is it?
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The adductors are a group of muscles on the inside of the upper leg and groin area which help to stabilise the pelvis. It is a common site of injury in activities with high running loads, kicking and rapid changes of direction.
Typical Symptoms/features:
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Gradual onset which is usually related to increased load
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Pain in the groin on one or both sides. Pain may also be felt in the lower abdominal region or radiate down the inside of the leg.
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Pain may be present during and/or after activity and may accompanied by stiffness after a period of rest
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Pain on stretching the groin muscles
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Pain when squeezing legs together
Management:
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Activity modification
- When you first start noticing hip pain, it may help to reduce your activity for a short amount of time to allow the pain to settle.
- However, there is strong evidence that says keeping active and slowly returning to your normal levels of activity can actually help the pain to settle quicker.
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Ice or heat
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Pain relief
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Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme.
Do I need imaging?
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Imaging (X-rays or scans) is rarely required to diagnose hip adductor pain
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Many people, even without hip pain, will have findings on imaging such as joint space changes, and osteoarthritic changes.
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These findings are unlikely to change how your hip pain is initially managed.
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X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury
