Fitness & Exercise

Groin Pull

When a Groin Pull Feel Better? continued...

In the meantime, switch to a new activity that won't put too much stress on your groin muscles. For instance, runners could try swimming.

Whatever you do, don't rush things. Don't try to return to your old level of physical activity until:

• You can move your leg on the injured side as freely and as easily as your other leg
• The leg on your injured side feels as strong as the leg on the uninjured side
• You feel no pain when you walk, jog, sprint, or jump

If you start pushing yourself before your groin pull is healed, you could re-injure yourself. And if you get further groin pulls, they may be harder to treat and take longer to heal. They can even lead to permanent disability.

How Can I Prevent Groin Pulls?

Given that groin pulls can be painful and debilitating, the best advice is to prevent them. You should:

• Always stretch your leg and groin muscles before physical activity.
• Wear shoes with good support that fit well.
• Always increase the intensity of your physical activity slowly -- no more than a 10% increase a week.
• Stop exercising if you feel pain or tightness in your groin or the inside of your thigh.
• Do regular strengthening exercises for your thigh muscles, especially if you've had a groin pull before.