Progression of a groin pull

This can be classified into 3 grades of groin pull or strain severity:

Minor - Grade 1 groin pulls involve stretching of your groin muscles which results in slightly pulled muscles or very small tears in your muscles. You will generally feel mild cramping which will be a little tender or uncomfortable, but will involve no swelling or no loss of strength.

Moderate - Grade 2 groin pulls are more painful and involve a partial tearing of the groin fibers in your muscle, tendon, or at the tendon attachment to your bone. You will generally experience some pain, along with swelling, decreased range of motion and strength, as well as difficulty walking or running. Your groin muscles will often be painful when you touch them.

Severe - Grade 3 groin pulls involve a complete tear (rupture) of your groin muscle fibers generally at your muscle/tendon and bone attachment; it is very painful and less frequent than the others. You will tend to experience a burning or stabbing pain, a lot of swelling and minimal strength, which may prevent you from walking without assistance or make it impossible for you to run. Bruising in the injured area is common a few days after the accident. This type of pull or strain may require a surgical repair.

Should you seek medical attention?

This is up to your discretion; however any continued discomfort in your groin or pelvis area should be investigated. If you continue to experience the groin pull symptoms and have tried the suggested conservative treatments, it is recommended that you seek professional medical attention. If you experience any of the symptoms noted below it is recommended that you seek immediate attention:

• Severe pain and tenderness
• Problems or swelling in or around the genitalia (penis, scrotum, testicles).
• A cut, lump or bulge or bleeding in your groin area.
• Major hip/thigh movement problems causing a severe limp and/or "popping noises"
• Urinary problem.
• A groin rash.
• Postoperative problems after a groin operation.
• Exposure to an STD.
• Groin pain has not improved after 1 week, where symptoms are more severe or frequent.
• Signs of shock (lightheadedness, restlessness, shallow breathing, sweating, weakness, nausea) or a severe fever.