Pulled Groin vs Hernia: How to Tell the Difference
It’s not uncommon to experience groin pain or discomfort. It’s also not uncommon to mistake a pulled groin vs hernia. According to a recent study, it is estimated that more than 20 million hernias are repaired every year worldwide. So how do you know whether or not your groin pain is a hernia? The answer boils down to two common factors.
How Do I Know if I Have a Pulled Groin or Hernia?
The two biggest factors that determine whether or not you have a hernia are your age and the presence of a lump or bulge. If you are over the age of 50, then you have a higher risk of developing a hernia. Lumps and bulges around the groin can also be telltale signs of a hernia, especially if they become more prominent with physical activity.
If you are under the age of 50 without experiencing any lumps or bulges, then it’s likely you have a groin strain.
How Does a Pulled Groin Feel?
Groin pain is typically described as a sharp pain within the inner thigh or pelvic area. Pulled groins tend to be painful when trying to lift or move your legs inward. You can also experience a loss of leg strength or tenderness around the affected area.
Are you experiencing groin pain? Talk to a specialist near you and contact the experts at OSR Physical Therapy. We’ll get you back on track to a groin pain-free life.
How Does an Inguinal Hernia Feel?
There are several symptoms that set hernias apart from pulled groins. For example, a sports hernia can appear as pain in the lower abdomen, pain when sneezing or laughing, or pain during exertion. Hernias can also lead to more severe symptoms such as:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Bulge discoloration
- Severe pain
- Trouble passing gas or bowels
If you are experiencing severe pain, call your doctor immediately.
Physical Therapy Exercises for Groin Pain
Physical therapy exercises are a great way to get your groin on its road to recovery. Movement is the best way to help your groin heal correctly, which is why we recommend plenty of stretching. Some physical therapy exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home include:
- Hamstring stretches
- Straight leg raises
- Hip stretches with resistance
If you are experiencing groin pain, contact a physical therapist at OSR Physical Therapy. Our team of trained professionals will create a personalized recovery plan unique to your groin injury.
Read More: Hip Labral Tears: Causes, Symptoms, & Exercises
Why Choose OSR Physical Therapy
Our mission at OSR Physical Therapy has remained the same since day one: to motivate our patients and clients in a positive, encouraging environment tailored to their unique needs. Even though groin pulls share similar symptoms, our team of experts will help alleviate your groin pain through carefully planned exercises and movements.
You want to improve your quality of life—and so do we. Contact OSR Physical Therapy and start your journey to a pain-free life today.