Groin Problems and Injuries

Prevention

The following tips may help you prevent a groin injury or other problems in the groin area.

Prevent groin injury and strain

Steps to prevent a groin injury or strain may include the following:

• Warm up by stretching the groin muscles before exercising. Stretching can increase your range of motion and reduce stiffness and pain. Stretching is also important during the cool-down phase of exercise when your muscles are warm.
• Increase the intensity and length of exercise gradually. As your fitness level improves, you will be able to do more intense exercise without injury.
• Try to exercise regularly; don't just go all out on weekends.
• Use proper sports techniques and equipment. For example:
  • Wear supportive, well-cushioned shoes for running, aerobics, and walking.
  • Properly adjust your bicycle seat and handle bars for your height.
• Drink extra water before and during exercise, especially in hot or humid weather. This can help prevent muscle cramps and stiffness.
• Make sure you can always see where you are walking. To avoid falls:
  • Use a step stool when reaching for high objects. Do not stand on chairs or other objects.
  • Don't climb stairs with both hands full.
• Get help carrying heavy or awkward objects. Do not strain to lift or carry objects.

Prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

You can take measures to reduce your risk of becoming infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD). You can also reduce the risk of transmitting an STD to your sex partner. Know high-risk behaviors and the symptoms of STDs and do not have sex with anyone who has these symptoms.

Condom use may reduce the risk of becoming infected with an STD. Condoms must be put on before beginning any sexual contact. Use condoms with a new partner until you are certain he or she does not have an STD.

Prevent jock itch or yeast infection

Steps to prevent jock itch (fungal infection of the skin in the groin) or yeast infection (cutaneous candidiasis) include the following:

• Dry yourself well after bathing. Use a hair dryer to dry your groin area.
• Wear cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes. Avoid tight pants.
• Use a powder to absorb moisture.
• If you have athlete's foot, put your socks on before your underwear. This can prevent fungi from spreading from your feet to your groin when you put on your underwear.
• Change out of a wet bathing suit soon after swimming so that your skin can dry out.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: March 29, 2007
Medical Review:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Philip Belitsky, MD, FRCSC - Urology
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