Groin pain in men: what to know

Pain after sprinting, kicking, or a sudden stretch can involve the inner-thigh muscles. Hip impingement may be aggravated by deep flexion or turning, while a hip labral tear may be associated with clicking or catching. Hip osteoarthritis can limit hip rotation and make everyday tasks harder. A groin lump, urinary burning, discharge, abdominal pain, or testicle swelling points toward a different assessment pathway. Tell the clinician whether pain is on one side, travels, follows exertion, or is present at rest.

Avoid the specific movement that triggers sharp pain and choose easy walking only if it remains comfortable. Do not repeatedly check a tender area by pressing it, and avoid heavy lifting when a lump is present. Arrange an assessment if pain persists, returns with activity, or affects work, walking, sex, or sleep. Once a musculoskeletal cause is confirmed, a graduated rehabilitation plan can restore movement and strength; Sports Physiotherapy can support return to sport.

Seek emergency care for sudden severe testicle pain, testicle swelling with nausea or vomiting, inability to pass urine, faintness, or a painful groin lump with vomiting. Prompt review is needed for fever, blood in urine, a new scrotal lump, or rapidly worsening pain. A routine appointment is sensible when symptoms continue, limit movement, or recur after exercise.

Ask which area appears to be generating the pain, whether the examination suggests a muscle or hip problem, and whether urine tests or imaging are needed. Ask what lifting and exercise limits apply, how to monitor a lump, and when a physiotherapist should become involved.