My groin hurts when I walk: what should I know?

Pain that began after exercise, a twist or a sudden change in activity may involve the inner-thigh muscles or nearby tendons. Pain felt deep in the groin, stiffness, clicking or reduced hip movement can come from the hip joint. A bulge that appears with coughing or straining may suggest a hernia. Groin pain can also be referred from the lower back, abdomen or urinary system, so location and associated symptoms matter.

Reduce walking, running and lifting while the pain is active, but keep gentle movement within comfort to avoid stiffness. Ice wrapped in a cloth may help after a recent strain; heat can feel soothing for muscle tightness. Wear supportive footwear and avoid forceful stretching. A pharmacist can discuss suitable pain relief based on your health history. Arrange an examination if pain is not settling or changes your walking.

Seek urgent care for severe or rapidly worsening pain, inability to stand or bear weight, a painful groin bulge that will not go back in, fever, repeated vomiting, testicular pain or swelling, numbness, or a cold or discoloured leg. A clinician should assess pain after a significant injury, pain with urinary symptoms, or discomfort that keeps returning.

Does the pain fit a muscle strain, hip problem or hernia? Do I need imaging or physiotherapy? Which activities are safe, and what symptoms should make me seek urgent care?