Groin Pain in Athletes: Understanding & Effective Return-to-Play Strategies

Groin pain is a common issue among athletes, particularly those involved in sports requiring quick changes in direction or rapid acceleration, like football, hockey, and rugby. This pain often stems from repetitive strain rather than direct impact and can hinder performance even without significant time loss.

What Causes Groin Pain?

Groin pain is complex, often involving weaknesses in the adductor muscles and hip stabilisers. Poor movement mechanics, previous injuries, and specific sport demands can increase an athlete’s risk.

Key Management Strategies:

1. Early Intervention: Addressing groin pain proactively can prevent further injury and support long-term performance. Individualised management, focusing on load management and functional exercises, allows athletes to stay active with minimal downtime.

2. Strategic Strengthening: Exercises like the Copenhagen adduction exercise target key muscles such as the adductors and glutes, strengthening areas that often contribute to groin pain. This comprehensive approach includes not only isolated strengthening but also improving pelvic stability and overall movement mechanics over the rehabilitation period back to pain free, full strength!

3. Return-to-Play Protocols: Safe return-to-play focuses on regaining strength, symmetry, and movement control. Side-to-side symmetry is essential, and performance tests that mimic sport-specific movements ensure athletes are truly ready to return.

4. Gender-Specific Considerations: Female athletes often have unique biomechanics that impact groin pain. Tailored preventive strategies consider these differences, especially in high-risk periods like preseason training.

Getting Back to Full Fitness

With personalised rehabilitation and the right training load, athletes can recover effectively. By focusing on both physical and psychological readiness, these strategies not only support a full recovery but also help athletes reach their performance potential.

For more on groin pain and tailored rehabilitation programs, feel free to get in touch!