Groin pain and hip pain: what to know

Pain at the front of the hip or in the groin can be linked to the hip joint, while pain after a sprint, kick, sudden change of direction, or wide stretch can involve the adductor muscles. Hip impingement may cause discomfort with deep bending or turning. A hip labral tear can produce catching, clicking, or a sense of giving way. Hip osteoarthritis may cause stiffness after rest and reduced ease with walking, stairs, or putting on shoes. These patterns overlap, so location alone cannot identify the cause.

Reduce movements that sharply reproduce the pain for a short period, but keep gentle walking if it feels comfortable. Avoid testing the area repeatedly or returning straight to sprinting and kicking. A wrapped cold pack may soothe a recent activity-related flare; use a towel barrier and stop if the skin becomes numb. Arrange an examination if pain is limiting normal movement, keeps returning, or does not begin settling. A physiotherapist can assess strength, hip motion, and load tolerance; Sports Physiotherapy may be useful when training or competition is involved.

Seek urgent care for severe pain after a fall or collision, inability to bear weight, a visibly deformed hip, a hot swollen joint with fever, or new numbness or weakness. Prompt medical assessment is also appropriate for groin pain with a new lump, severe abdominal symptoms, or pain that is rapidly worsening. Book a routine appointment when symptoms disturb sleep, walking, work, or exercise.

Ask which movement or structure seems to reproduce the pain, whether an examination is enough initially, and which activities should be paused. You can also ask how to rebuild hip and groin strength, what change should prompt earlier review, and whether referral to physiotherapy is suitable.