Like other body aches, a groin pain can be caused simply by overuse or strain, or it can be caused by a more serious condition that may require medical attention. Athletes often develop groin pain after excessive physical activity, or activity that the body is not used to. More severe muscle aches can be due to a muscle tear or strain, requiring a lot of rest, icing, and stretching. More serious conditions that can cause groin pain include hernias, testicular trauma, cysts, and tumors. If the pain persists for more than a few days or recurs frequently, a more serious cause may be the cause and a doctor should be consulted.
As muscles get tired, they tend to tense up. If the groin muscle becomes tired from overuse, the muscles in that area will tighten, causing a sore or burning sensation throughout the groin and legs. Such a condition can be easily treated by getting plenty of rest, applying ice to the affected area, and drinking plenty of fluids. Pain the day after physical exertion is common and quite normal, and the sensation usually disappears after a few days of rest and light stretching. If the pain persists, the groin pain may be caused by a muscle tear or strain.
A muscle tension occurs when more force is applied than the muscle can handle to the body. The muscle may tense or spasm, causing muscle tension. If the muscle fibers are stretched enough to separate from each other, a muscle tear has occurred. Both conditions can often be treated with plenty of rest, ice, and light stretching, although more serious muscle tears may need to be surgically repaired. A muscle tear will cause groin pain that is very painful; Bruising and swelling may occur, and the torn muscle may clump together at one end of the muscle.
Sometimes groin pain has nothing to do with the muscles in the area. A groin pain can be the result of menstrual pain radiating to the groin and even legs, or it can be the result of testicular pain due to trauma or other conditions. More serious conditions, including cysts and tumors, can cause groin pain, although these are less likely causes than simple muscle aches. If a groin pain lasts for more than a few days despite ample rest, stretching, and conditioning, it may be time to see a doctor to rule out more serious possible causes.