General practice·General practice
Groin pain
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Groin pain is discomfort or pain in the area where your belly meets your upper thigh. This area is called the groin. The pain can come from muscles, tendons, bones, or organs nearby, like the hip joint, parts of the bowel, or the reproductive organs.
Key facts
- Groin pain is very common and can have many different causes, from a simple muscle strain to a hernia or a problem in the hip joint.
- Most groin pain gets better with rest and simple self-care, but some causes need medical treatment.
- In men, groin pain can sometimes be a sign of a problem with the testicles, which needs urgent care.
Yes, groin pain is very common. It happens to people of all ages, especially those who are physically active or play sports.
Groin pain can affect anyone, but it is most common in athletes (especially runners and soccer players), people who do heavy lifting, older adults with hip arthritis, and men with hernias.