top of page
Search

Top reasons for groin pain in runners

Groin pain in runners can arise from several distinct causes, most of which are linked to muscular strains, overuse, and biomechanical issues. Below are the most common and clinically relevant reasons:


1. Adductor Muscle Strains and Tendinopathies

  • Strain of the adductor muscles (especially adductor longus) is among the most frequent causes of groin pain in runners.

  • Usually results from overstretching, sudden changes in direction, or overuse.

  • Pain is often sharp and may begin suddenly or develop gradually with continued activity.


2. Hip Flexor Strains

  • The iliopsoas and rectus femoris (hip flexors) are also commonly involved.

  • These injuries typically present as pain or tightness felt during hip flexion—such as during the leg swing phase of running.


3. Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

  • Structural irregularities in the hip joint can cause the bones to impinge, leading to deep, sometimes sharp, groin pain.

  • Often worsens with repeated flexion or intensive running and may be accompanied by a sensation of catching or pinching.


4. Adductor Tendinopathy

  • Overuse or repetitive loading can inflame or injure the tendon where the adductors insert near the pelvis.

  • Pain often worsens after hard workouts or increased mileage and may persist into the next day.


ree

5. Osteitis Pubis

  • Overuse inflammation of the pubic symphysis and its surrounding structures.

  • Presents as pain in the midline of the groin, exacerbated by running, especially over extended periods or high intensity.


6. Sports Hernia

  • Not a traditional hernia, but tearing or degeneration of the soft tissues in the lower abdominal wall or inguinal region.

  • More common in sports with twisting and turning, but long-distance and speed work can also be risk factors.


7. Stress Fractures

  • Femoral neck and pubic ramus stress fractures can present as deep, persistent groin pain.

  • Often seen in runners dramatically increasing mileage or training intensity, or those with bone density issues.


8. Rectus Abdominis Involvement

  • Tears or tendinopathies in the lower portion of the rectus abdominis, which attaches near the pubic bone, can contribute to groin pain, especially in high-mileage runners or those with core weakness

 

 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page