March 2, 2015,
Groin pain refers to discomfort in the area where the abdomen ends and the legs begin. This article focuses on groin pain in men. The terms "groin" and "testicle" are sometimes used interchangeably. But what causes pain in one area does not always cause pain in the other.
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Back to TopAlternative Names
Pain - groin; Lower abdominal pain; Genital pain; Perineal pain
Back to TopCauses
Common causes of groin pain include:
- Pulled muscle, tendon, or ligaments in the leg. This problem often occurs in people who play sports such as hockey, soccer, and football. This condition is sometimes called "sports hernia" although the name is misleading since it is not an actual hernia. It may also involve pain in the testicles.
- Hernia. This problem occurs when there is a weak spot in the wall of the abdominal muscle that allows internal organs to press through.
- Disease or injury to the hip joint.
Less common causes include:
Back to TopHome Care
Home care depends on the cause. Follow your health care provider's recommendations.
Back to TopReferences
Buttaravoli P, Leffler SM, eds. Minor Emergencies . 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2012:chap 122.
Gerber GS, Brendler CB. In: Wein AJ, ed. Evaluation of the urologic patient: History, physical examination, and the urinalysis. Campbell-Walsh Urology . 10th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 3.
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