What should you know about groin and hamstring pain?

A sudden sprint, kick, split-step, or overstretch may irritate the hamstring or inner-thigh muscles. Pain in the groin with hip stiffness, clicking, or pain when turning can involve the hip joint. Back-related nerve irritation may cause burning, tingling, or symptoms that travel down the leg. Bruising, a snapping sensation, or immediate loss of strength makes a more substantial muscle injury more concerning and warrants an examination.

Stop the specific sprinting, kicking, or stretching movement that caused pain and use comfortable walking as a guide. During the early phase of an injury, a cloth-wrapped cold pack may reduce discomfort. Avoid aggressive massage or long hamstring stretches when bruising or sharp pain is present. Once ordinary movement is easier, a physiotherapist can progress gentle loading, hip control, and sport-specific drills. Read about [Sports Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/sports-physiotherapy/) and [Groin Pain](/symptoms/groin-pain/).

Arrange prompt medical review if you heard a pop, developed substantial bruising, cannot walk normally, or notice clear weakness. Seek urgent care for severe pain after trauma, a cold or pale foot, new loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness in the saddle area. Persistent pain that changes your gait also deserves assessment.

Which structure seems involved based on the painful movement and strength testing? When can I begin strengthening? How should I progress from walking to running, and which signs mean I should stop?