Even though golfers often end up with injuries to the elbows or shoulders, groin injuries due to the torso rotation during a swing can also occur which results to groin pain. This movement can worsen other conditions not caused by the sport. A doctor must be consulted for proper diagnosis and treatment if the individual experiences groin pain during the game or after playing golf. To learn to recognize and manage muscle injuries and conditions, enroll in a first aid course with a credible provider near you.
Groin pull
A groin strain or pull can cause groin pain. This injury involves tearing, stretching or even the discoloration of the interior thigh muscles known as the hip adductors. It is important to note that these muscles are activated while performing a golf swing to move the hips toward the midline of the body. Take note that this movement occurs first to shift the weight backwards and then again to shift forward during the down swing. The overuse of the muscles or lack of warm up is likely to cause a groin pull while playing golf.
Sports hernia
A possible cause of groin pain is sports hernia. Those who play hockey and soccer are likely to suffer from sports hernia due to the repetitive twisting, but those who play golf are subjected to twisting which makes them prone to injuries as well.
Sports hernia involves weakening of the back part of the inguinal wall that does not result in a hernia that can be felt externally. The inguinal wall is a region right above the genitals. This is considered as the deepest layer of the abdominal muscles that can cause gradual groin pain over time that worsens with activity.
Osteitis pubis
Osteitis pubis causes groin pain due to the inflammation at the area on the front part of the pelvic girdle where the left and right pubic bones meet. Dancers and ice skaters face a high risk for this condition but activities that involve repetitive motions in the lower body will develop this condition.
The individual will feel pain on one or both sides of the groin. Rest and application of ice can help minimize the pain and swelling. On the other hand, it is best to consult a doctor if needed. In some cases, an MRI or bone scan is requested to confirm a diagnosis.
Nerve entrapment
Playing golf can worsen groin pain due to nerve entrapment in the thigh or groin area. It is important to note that nerve entrapment involves the compression or irritation of a nerve, possibly due to inflammation. The nerves might be stuck to the skin of the groin due to scar tissue formation from a recent surgery.
The nerve that is trapped close to the anterior and sides of the thigh can cause groin pain or numbness. Twisted movement can increase the pain from these nerve tissues.