This unpleasant condition can either be caused by an acute injury to muscles/structures in the groin, for example during exercise, or by longer term postural and imbalance issues.
The prime suspects in acute injury are the adductor muscles of the hip which run from the pubic bone down the inner thigh. Exercise without adequate stretching of these muscles can cause a painful muscle strain. Chronic, longer term manifestations of groin pain are often associated with pelvic imbalance and muscle imbalance, often irritating the pubic symphysis joint.
The pelvis is a dynamic structure and it can easily be thrown out of balance, putting more pressure on the pubic bone in the groin. Pregnancy is a classic cause of dysfunction in this area as much greater forces are put through the pelvis.
Also pain may be referred to the groin from other areas such as hip joint problems. It is always wise to eliminate the less likely causes such as gynecological or kidney issues first.
Groin pain requires a careful and expert diagnosis by a trained professional. It is a common presentation in clinic and where appropriate, receives careful and expert treatment. Firstly an assessment and analysis is performed to establish how serious the problem is and then, if appropriate, gentle treatment is performed to mobilize structures, balancing body mechanics, and freeing up the structures causing the symptoms. This reduces pain and increases balance and symmetry.
Ultimately the aim is not just to treat it but prevent the symptoms from reoccurring. This includes education on how to keep the area in question healthy in the future. Please call to talk to a trained professional if you want to know more.