Inguinal distension in women: causes, symptoms and treatments

Inguinal distension in women: causes, symptoms and treatments

A groin strain, also known as a groin strain, is a common injury that occurs when the muscles on the inner thigh are stretched or torn. Although this injury can affect both men and women, women are especially prone to groin strains due to anatomical differences and certain physical activities.

One of the main causes of groin pulls in women is practicing sports or activities that involve quick and energetic movements, such as sprints, jumps or agile changes of direction. These movements overload the adductor muscles, a group of muscles located on the inner thigh responsible for hip stability and leg movement. When these muscles are overstretched or subjected to excessive force, they can become strained or torn.

Common symptoms of strained inguinal muscles in women:

  • Sharp pain or aching sensation in the inner thigh or groin area
  • Tenderness and swelling around the affected area
  • Difficulty walking, running, or doing everyday activities
  • Bruising or discoloration
  • Popping or clicking sensation at the time of injury
    1. Severity of Inguinal Muscle Pulls:
    2. Grade 1: Mild muscle strain with minimal tear
    3. Grade 2: Moderate muscle strain with partial tear
    4. Grade 3: Severe muscle strain with complete tear

When an inguinal muscle strain is suspected, it is crucial to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. The doctor will perform a physical exam, evaluate the person’s symptoms, and may recommend additional tests such as X-rays or MRIs to rule out other underlying conditions and determine the severity of the injury.

Pulled Groin Muscles: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Causes:

  1. Vigorous movements: Performing activities that require sudden, forceful movements, such as sprinting, jumping, or changing direction quickly, can put excessive strain on the groin muscles, which can lead to a pulled muscle.
  2. Weak adductor muscles: People with weak adductor muscles are more likely to suffer from groin strains, as these muscles are not strong enough to withstand the stress they are subjected to during physical activities.
  3. Inadequate warming up: Failure to warm up properly before engaging in strenuous physical activity can increase the risk of groin strain. Warm-up exercises help prepare the muscles for the activity to be performed and reduce the chance of injury.

Important: Avoiding sudden and excessive force on the adductor muscles, maintaining their strength through regular exercise, and performing proper warm-up routines can help prevent an inguinal muscle pull.

Symptoms:

  • Pain or discomfort in the groin area, especially when performing movements that involve the adductor muscles.
  • Tenderness and swelling in the inguinal region.
  • Difficulty walking, running, or doing activities that require the participation of the groin muscles.
  • Feeling of popping or clicking at the time of injury.

Treatment:

  1. Rest: The initial and most important step in treating a pulled groin muscle is to rest the injured area. This allows the muscle to heal and prevents further damage.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours can help reduce pain and swelling.
  3. Compression: Using compression bandages or elastic bandages can provide support and reduce swelling.
  4. Elevation: Elevating the leg with the inguinal muscle stretched above the level of the heart can help minimize swelling.
  5. Physical Therapy: Performing specific exercises and stretches under the supervision of a physical therapist can help regain strength and flexibility and prevent future injuries.
Degree Description
Grade 1 Mild strain with minimal muscle fiber damage
Grade 2 Moderate strain with partial rupture of muscle fibers
3rd grade Severe strain with tear or complete rupture of the muscle

Understanding the Groin Muscles

The adductor longus is the largest of the adductor muscles and extends from the pelvis to the inner surface of the femur. Helps in flexion and abduction of the hip joint.

The adductor brevis is a shorter muscle located deep in the adductor longus. It has a similar function to that of the adductor longus, assisting in the movements of the hip joint.

The adductor muscles are responsible for bringing the legs together, assisting in movements such as walking, running and jumping. They also provide stability to the hip joint and help maintain correct posture.

The adductor magnus is the largest of the adductor muscles and has hip flexion and extension functions. It starts from the pelvis and joins the femur.

The gracilis muscle is located on the inner thigh and is the most superficial of the adductor muscles. Helps in adduction and flexion of the knee joint.

The pectineus muscle is a small muscle located deep in the upper thigh. Contributes to hip flexion and adduction movements.

To better understand adductor muscles, their location and functions are summarized in the following table:

Muscle Location Function
Long adductor From the pelvis to the internal face of the femur Flexion and abduction of the hip joint
Short adductor Long adductor deep Help in hip joint movements
Major adductor From the pelvis to femur Flexion and hip extension
Gracilis Inner thigh face Adduction and flexion of the knee joint
Pectineal Deep in the upper part of the thigh Hip flexion and adduction
  • The adductor muscles are frequently activated during activities that imply leg movements, such as walking, running and jumping.
  • They are likely to suffer from relaxions and injuries, especially in athletes that practice sports that require sudden changes of direction or intense movements.
  • The pulls of the inguinal muscles can cause pain and important discomfort, making mobility and performance difficult.

A basic knowledge of inguinal muscles and their functions can help recognize and treat problems related to this area, such as inguinal pulls or adductor distensions. If you experience any discomfort or symptom, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

What Causes Pulled Groin Muscles in Females?

1. Muscle imbalance: One of the main causes of inguinal pulls in women is a muscular imbalance at the bottom of the body. When the muscles surrounding the hip and groin are not as strong and flexible, it can increase tension in certain muscles during movements such as running, jumping or kicking. This imbalance puts an extra tension in the muscles of the groin, making them more susceptible to the lesions.

2. Sudden movements or changes of direction: women who practice sports or activities that require rapid and repetitive movements run a higher risk of inguinal pulls. Sudden movements or changes, such as stopping, pivoting or accelerating abruptly, can subdue inguinal muscles to excessive tension, causing their distension or tear. Physical activities such as football, basketball and dance usually involve these types of movements, which makes athletes more likely to suffer inguinal distensions.

  1. 3. Heating and insufficient stretching: Do not heat or stretch properly before performing a physical activity can also contribute to pulls in women’s inguinal muscles. Without adequate heating, muscles may not be prepared for the demands of the activity, which increases the probability of injuries. It is essential to perform dynamic heating exercises and specific stretching focused on the muscles of the groin and hip to help prevent distensions.

In summary, inguinal pulls in women may be due to muscle imbalances, abrupt movements or changes of direction and insufficient heating and stretching. It is important that women, especially those who practice sports or activities that subject inguinal muscles to greater tension, take precautions to reduce the risk of injury. The regular incorporation of force exercises, adequate heating routines and the maintenance of flexibility are key components to prevent and treat inguinal pulls.

Symptoms of a Pulled Groin Muscle in Females

1. Pain and sensitivity: One of the main symptoms of a muscle pull in groin is an acute or sharp pain in the internal zone of the thigh. This pain can get worse with activities that involve stretching or contracting the muscles of the groin, such as walking, running or climbing stairs. In addition, the affected area may be sensitive to touch and feel sore when pressure is applied.

2. Swelling and bruising: Another common symptom of a muscle pull in groin is swelling in the injured area. This swelling can be accompanied by visible bruises, which occur as a result of the breakage of blood vessels near the skin surface. Swelling and bruises often indicate a more serious distension and can take several days or weeks to disappear completely.

Note: It is important to differentiate an inguinal muscle pull from a hernia, which can also cause similar symptoms. If there is a bump or lump visible in the inguinal area, or if the pain is radiates to the leg, it is recommended to seek immediate medical attention.

3. Limitation of movement amplitude: women with a muscle pull in groin may experience difficulties to move the affected leg. Activities that involve separating the legs, such as squatting or participating in sports activities can be especially difficult. There may also be a remarkable decrease in flexibility or force in the internal zone of the thigh.

4. Muscle spasms: muscles affected by an inguinal pull can suffer spasms. These involuntary contractions can cause sudden and acute pain and further restrict movement. Muscle spasms can occur during physical or resting activity, causing discomfort and aggravating the injury.

Common symptoms of an inguinal muscle pull in women:
– Acute or sharp pain on the inner face of the thigh
– Swelling and bruises in the inguinal zone
– Limited movement range in the affected leg
– Muscle spasms

If you experience any of these symptoms after an abrupt movement or strenuous activity, it is advisable to rest your affected leg, apply ice to reduce swelling and go to the doctor to obtain adequate diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring symptoms or continuing to force the injured area can cause additional complications and delay the healing process.

Diagnosing Pulled Groin Muscles in Females

Medical history: The first step to diagnose an inguinal muscle distension is to obtain a detailed medical history of the patient. This includes information about the beginning of the symptoms, any previous or related injury and the specific activities or sports that the patient practices. The collection of this information helps the healthcare professional to understand the possible causes and risk factors of an inguinal distension.

Important note: It is essential that the healthcare professional establish an environment of trust and comfort for the patient, since talking about symptoms related to inguinal lesions can be delicate or embarrassing for some people.

Physical examination: After collecting the medical history, a physical examination is performed to evaluate the signs and symptoms of an inguinal muscle pull. During the exploration, the doctor will feel the muscles of the inner face of the thigh in search of sensitive areas, swelling or muscle knots. You can also perform specific maneuvers, such as straight leg or resisted adduction of the hip, to assess the strength and amplitude of the movement of the inguinal muscles.

  1. Palpation: Palpation consists of palpating with your hands the affected area of the internal muscles of the thigh to detect any painful anomaly or response.
  2. Strength tests and movement amplitude: These tests help evaluate the function and flexibility of the muscles of the groin, which can be compromised in case of muscle pull.
Signs and symptoms of an inguinal distension: Differentiating factors:
Pain and sensitivity in the inner face of the thigh Inguinal pain located during specific movements
Swelling or bruise in the inguinal area Increase in pain with activities that require hip adduction or sudden changes of direction
Difficulty or discomfort when walking, running or performing activities that involve the use of inguinal muscles. Possible audible “pop” sound during the initial lesion

Once the medical history and physical examination have been completed, the healthcare professional can determine the probability that it is an inguinal muscle distension and recommend other diagnostic tests, such as an ultrasound or a magnetic resonance, if necessary. An early and precise diagnosis is crucial to elaborate an adequate treatment plan and facilitate the recovery process of women with inguinal muscle pulls.

Treatment Options for Groin Muscle Strains in Women

1. Rest and ice: The initial treatment of inguinal pulls in women consists of rest and application of ice in the affected area. This helps reduce pain, inflammation and swelling. It is recommended to apply ice in the injured area for 15-20 minutes every hour during the first 48 hours. Avoiding activities that worsen pain and give time to muscle so that it is cured is crucial for rapid recovery.

Tip: It is important to protect the injured muscle so that it does not suffer more overloads during the healing process. Avoid activities that require sudden movements or excessive stretching of inguinal muscles.

2. 2. Physiotherapy: In the most serious cases or when the symptoms persist, physiotherapy can be recommended. A qualified physiotherapist can develop a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles that surround groin, promote flexibility and improve the general function. Ultrasound therapy, deep tissue massage, and other modalities can also be used to help in the healing process.

3. Medications: No n-steroidal ant i-inflammatories (NSAIDs) free sale, such as ibuprofen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with an inguinal muscle pull. However, it is important to consult a health professional before taking any medication, especially if there are pr e-existing medical conditions or allergies.

Treatment options for inguinal pulls
Rest and ice Avoid strenuous activities and apply ice for pain and swelling.
Physiotherapy Personalized exercise program to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
Medicines NSAID use to relieve pain and reduce inflammation

Note: It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and an adapted treatment plan, since the severity of inguinal muscle disters can vary. Following the recommended treatment options and perform the prescribed rehabilitation exercises is crucial for satisfactory recovery.

Preventing Groin Muscle Injuries in Women: Essential Tips and Exercises

Knowledge of inguinal muscles:

The inguinal muscles, also known as hip adductor muscles, are a group of muscles located on the inner face of the thigh. They play a crucial role in stabilization of the pelvis and help in movements such as walking, running and changing direction. When these muscles suffer from a distension or a pull, they can cause pain, limitation of the amplitude of movement and difficulty in performing physical activities.

Tips for preventing inguinal pulls:

  1. Hot properly: before performing any physical activity, it is important to heat the muscles, including those of the groin, to increase blood flow and flexibility. Make dynamic movements such as leg balance, hip rotations and lunge to activate and prepare the muscles.
  2. Gradual progression: Avoid sudden increases in intensity or duration of physical activities. Gradually progress and increase strength and resistance to avoid overdesters and tensions in inguinal muscles.
  3. Wear adequate clothes: Be sure to wear suitable sports shoes and support clothes that allow unrestricted movement. This can help maintain adequate alignment and reduce the risk of imbalances and muscle tensions.

Exercises to strengthen inguinal muscles:

Regular practice of strength and flexibility exercises can significantly reduce the probability of suffering inguinal lesions. Here are some effective exercises:

  • Leg elevations in lateral recumbency: Tashed side with extended legs. Lift the leg above keeping it stretched and slowly. Repeat the operation on the other side. Make 2-3 series of 10-12 repetitions on each side.
  • Butterfly stretching: Sit on the ground and bring your heels to the body as much as possible. Fill your feet or ankles and gently press your knees to the ground. Keep stretching for 30 seconds and repeat it 3-4 times.
  • Adductor stretch: Sit in a stability ball or in a chair with a towel placed between the knees. Tighten the towel and keep it tight for 5 seconds before releasing it. Repeat the exercise between 10 and 12 times.

The incorporation of these tips and preventive exercises into their routine can help women reduce the risk of inguinal pulls and maintain optimal muscle health. Always consult a healthcare professional or a coach entitled before starting a new exercise program, especially if you suffer from pr e-existing diseases or injuries.

Author of the article
Dr.Greenblatt M.
Dr.Greenblatt M.
Medical oncologist at the Robert Larner College of Medicine, MD, at the University of Vermont

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