What should you know about a TENS machine for groin pain?

TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, creates a tingling sensation that can change how pain signals are processed. It may be useful alongside movement advice while a clinician considers whether the pain relates to the muscles, hip joint, or another source. Groin pain can occur with hip impingement, a hip labral tear, or hip osteoarthritis, so relief from the device does not identify the diagnosis.

Ask a physiotherapist to show you electrode placement because the groin is close to sensitive structures. Use intact skin, begin with a gentle setting, and follow the device instructions. Stop if the sensation becomes painful, the skin becomes irritated, or symptoms spread. Do not place electrodes over broken skin, the front of the neck, or across the chest. A planned rehabilitation programme, such as sports physiotherapy when appropriate, may address strength, mobility, and load management more directly.

Arrange medical assessment for severe or worsening pain, inability to bear weight, marked swelling, fever, a new groin lump, numbness, or pain after significant injury. Seek urgent help for sudden severe testicular pain, fainting, or a painful bulge that cannot be pushed back. Persistent groin pain also deserves an examination rather than repeated self-treatment.

Could my symptoms fit a muscle problem, hip impingement, labral tear, or osteoarthritis? Where should the electrodes go, and what setting is suitable for me? What exercises or activity changes should accompany TENS? How long should I try it before reviewing the plan?