Jump to
How can you care for groin strain?
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
- If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- Rest and protect your injured or sore groin area for 1 to 2 weeks. Stop, change, or take a break from any activity that may be causing your pain or soreness. Do not do intense activities while you still have pain.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your groin area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
- After 2 or 3 days, if your swelling is gone, apply heat. Put a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm cloth on your groin area. Do not go to sleep with a heating pad on your skin.
- If your doctor gave you crutches, make sure you use them as directed.
- Wear snug shorts or underwear that support the injured area.
Groin strain in children: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has new or severe pain or swelling in the groin area.
- Your child's groin or upper thigh is cool or pale or changes color.
- Your child has tingling, weakness, or numbness in the groin or leg.
- Your child cannot move the leg.
- Your child cannot put weight on the leg.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- Your child does not get better as expected.
©2011-2025 Healthwise, Incorporated
The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.