A groin strain is a stretching or partial tearing of the muscle in the lower belly (abdomen) or upper thigh. This may happen because of too much coughing, heavy lifting, or active sports. The pain may last for several days or weeks, depending on how bad the stretch or tear is. It will generally get better with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medicines.
A groin strain can lead to a groin hernia. This is also called an inguinal hernia. A hernia is a complete tear of the abdominal muscle. This allows fat or the intestines to bulge out and create a visible bump just above the thigh crease. This is a more serious problem and may need surgery to repair it. When you lie down, the bump should get smaller or disappear completely. If it doesn’t, and you are not able to flatten it with your hand, you need medical attention right away.
Home care
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Don’t do any heavy lifting, straining, or any activities that cause groin pain.
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You may use over-the-counter pain medicine to control pain, such as ibuprofen, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, or take a blood thinner, talk with your health care provider before using these medicines.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised. Make an appointment with your provider if you develop a bump in the area of the groin.
When to get medical advice
Contact your health care provider right away if you have:
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Increasing pain in the area of the groin strain.
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A tender bump just above the groin crease that does not flatten when you lie down or press on it.
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Overall abdominal swelling or pain.
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Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or above, or as advised by your provider.
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Chills.
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Repeated vomiting.
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Pain that moves to the lower right abdomen, just below the waistline, or spreads to the back.
Online Medical Reviewer: Rahul Banerjee MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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