Groin and testicle pain when walking: what to know

Walking loads the hip flexors, adductors, abdominal wall, and pelvic muscles. A strain may hurt when taking a long step, climbing, or changing direction. Hip joint irritation can refer pain toward the groin and sometimes the testicle. A hernia may cause pressure or a bulge that worsens with coughing or standing. Testicular or epididymal problems can also cause local pain, swelling, tenderness, or urinary symptoms; these cannot be diagnosed from walking pain alone.

Record when the pain began, whether it is sudden or gradual, and whether there is swelling, nausea, fever, discharge, burning urination, or a lump.

Stop strenuous exercise and shorten walks if each step increases symptoms. Wear supportive underwear if movement causes scrotal discomfort, and avoid repeatedly checking or pressing the area. Do not attempt to push a painful bulge back into the groin. Arrange prompt medical assessment for persistent testicle pain, a new lump, swelling, urinary symptoms, or pain that does not settle with rest. A clinician may examine the scrotum, groin, abdomen, hip, and back.

Go to urgent care immediately for sudden or severe testicular pain, a testicle that appears higher or rotated, rapidly increasing swelling, nausea or vomiting with testicle pain, or severe pain after an injury. Fever with scrotal redness, inability to pass urine, or a painful groin bulge also needs prompt care. Do not wait for physiotherapy when symptoms are sudden or localised to the testicle.

Ask: Does the pain appear to come from the testicle, groin, hip, or back? Do I need same-day evaluation or an ultrasound? Could a hernia or urinary problem explain it? Which activities are safe while I recover?