Adductor Tendinopathy – Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Overview of Adductor Tendinopathy

Adductor tendinopathy is a condition where the tendons of your inner thigh muscles become irritated or damaged, leading to persistent groin pain. The adductor muscles are responsible for pulling your legs toward the midline of your body, stabilizing your pelvis, and supporting many daily movements such as walking, climbing stairs, or sitting down.

This condition is common in athletes, particularly soccer, hockey, and rugby players, but it can also affect people who are not athletes. You may notice pain in your groin that worsens with activity and sometimes lingers after exercise. Unlike a sudden muscle strain, adductor tendinopathy develops over time from repeated stress on the tendon.

Prevalence and Who Is Affected

• Studies show groin pain accounts for 10–18% of sports-related injuries in athletes, with adductor tendinopathy being one of the leading causes (Falvey et al., 2016).
• It is more frequent in men than women, partly due to higher participation in sports with cutting, sprinting, and kicking movements.
• However, sedentary individuals, office workers, or those with physically demanding jobs may also experience this condition.

Impact on Daily Life

Adductor tendinopathy doesn’t just limit athletic performance—it can interfere with many aspects of daily living:

• Work: Pain when standing, walking, or lifting heavy objects.
• Sleep: Discomfort when lying on your side or rolling over at night.
• Exercise: Reduced ability to play sports, run, or even perform simple stretches.
• Relationships & Mental Health: Chronic pain can cause frustration, irritability, and anxiety about returning to activity.

In short, this condition can affect your mobility, independence, and quality of life if not addressed early.

Reference: Falvey, É. C., King, E., Kinsella, S., Franklyn-Miller, A. (2016). Athletic groin pain (part 1): a prospective anatomical diagnosis of 382 patients—clinical findings, MRI findings and patient-reported outcome measures at baseline. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 50(7), 423–430. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2015-094912

Symptoms of Adductor Tendinopathy

The main symptom of adductor tendinopathy is pain in the groin or inner thigh that worsens with activity. The pain is usually felt where the adductor tendons attach to the pubic bone but may radiate down the thigh.

What Are the Main Symptoms of Adductor Tendinopathy?

• Groin pain that starts gradually and worsens over weeks or months.
• Pain with movement, especially when running, changing direction, or kicking.
• Tenderness when pressing on the inner thigh or pubic bone.
• Stiffness or aching after rest, such as getting up in the morning.
• Weakness in the inner thigh, making it harder to squeeze the legs together.

Symptom Severity Spectrum

• Mild: Pain only after exercise.
• Moderate: Pain during activity and lingering soreness afterward.
• Severe: Pain at rest, difficulty walking, and disturbed sleep.

How Does It Affect Daily Function?

• Work life: Jobs that require lifting, bending, or standing may worsen symptoms.
• Sports: Reduced performance, risk of reinjury, or being sidelined for weeks or months.
• Sleep: Rolling over in bed or lying with legs apart can trigger sharp discomfort.
• Mental health: Chronic pain may lead to stress, frustration, and avoidance of social activities.

Red Flag Signs – When to Seek Help

While most cases are not dangerous, you should see a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Sudden severe pain in the groin after trauma.
• Swelling, bruising, or inability to bear weight.
• Numbness, tingling, or pain radiating beyond the thigh.

Reference: Weir, A., Brukner, P., Delahunt, E., Ekstrand, J., Griffin, D., Khan, K. M., … & Hölmich, P. (2015). Doha agreement meeting on terminology and definitions in groin pain in athletes. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(12), 768–774. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2015-094869

Causes and Risk Factors for Adductor Tendinopathy

Adductor tendinopathy is caused by repeated stress or overload of the inner thigh tendons, leading to microscopic damage and reduced tendon healing.

What Causes Adductor Tendinopathy?

• Repetitive strain: Running, sprinting, or kicking in sports.
• Sudden overload: Rapid increase in training intensity or volume.
• Biomechanical issues: Poor hip or core stability, uneven leg strength, or restricted hip mobility.
• Age-related changes: Tendons lose elasticity and strength as you age, making them more vulnerable.

Common Risk Factors

• Athletic participation: Soccer, hockey, rugby, tennis, and dance.
• Occupation: Jobs with heavy lifting, frequent squatting, or long hours standing.
• Posture & movement habits: Weak glutes, poor balance, or faulty gait mechanics.
• Weight: Higher body mass places more stress on tendons.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pelvic stress may contribute.

Lifestyle and Daily Impacts

• Young athletes may face interrupted training and loss of competitive time.
• Older adults may find daily walking and stair climbing difficult.
• Sedentary workers often notice stiffness from prolonged sitting.

How Is Adductor Tendinopathy Different from a Muscle Strain?

• Tendinopathy: Pain develops gradually, worsens with repetitive use, and persists beyond the activity.
• Muscle strain: Pain is sudden, often with bruising, swelling, and a clear moment of injury.

Reference: Reiman, M. P., & Thorborg, K. (2014). Clinical examination and physical assessment of hip joint-related pain in athletes. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 9(6), 737–755. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4262802/

Diagnosis, Recovery, and Management of Adductor Tendinopathy

Diagnosis of Adductor Tendinopathy

Adductor tendinopathy is diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, functional testing, and sometimes imaging. The goal is to confirm that your pain is coming from the adductor tendon and not another condition such as a groin strain, hip joint problem, or hernia.

How Do Doctors Test for Adductor Tendinopathy?

A healthcare provider usually begins with a physical examination. They will ask about your history, such as:

• When the pain started and how it has progressed.
• What activities make the pain worse (running, kicking, sitting, etc.).
• Whether you’ve had previous groin or hip injuries.

They may then perform functional tests, such as:

• Adductor squeeze test: You press your knees together against resistance. Pain suggests involvement of the adductor tendons.
• Palpation: The clinician presses on the tendon attachment at the pubic bone to check for tenderness.
• Range of motion tests: Movements of the hip are checked to see if they reproduce pain or stiffness.

These tests help rule in or rule out adductor tendinopathy and distinguish it from other causes of groin pain.

What Imaging Tests Are Used for Adductor Tendinopathy?

In some cases, imaging may be ordered:

• Ultrasound: Provides a real-time look at tendon structure and can detect thickening or degeneration.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used if diagnosis is unclear or if symptoms are severe. MRI can show tendon changes, inflammation, or other hip/groin conditions that may mimic tendinopathy.

Most people with straightforward cases do not need advanced imaging. Imaging is more common in athletes who may require precise diagnosis before returning to play.

How Is Adductor Tendinopathy Different from Other Conditions?

• Groin strain: Sudden pain with swelling or bruising after a specific injury.
• Hip labral tear: Pain may click, catch, or lock inside the hip joint.
• Inguinal hernia: Bulge in the groin, worsens with coughing or lifting.

A careful evaluation ensures that the correct condition is being treated.

Reference: Serner, A., Roemer, F., Hölmich, P., Guermazi, A., & Weir, A. (2017). Imaging findings in adductor-related groin pain in athletes: a systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 51(6), 442–450. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-096470

Recovery Timeline and Prognosis for Adductor Tendinopathy

Recovery from adductor tendinopathy depends on severity, your activity level, and how quickly treatment begins. With proper care, most people improve, but recovery is gradual since tendons heal more slowly than muscles.

How Long Does Adductor Tendinopathy Usually Take to Heal?

• Mild cases: 4–6 weeks with rest, exercise modification, and simple rehabilitation.
• Moderate cases: 2–3 months of progressive strengthening and treatment.
• Severe or chronic cases: 3–6 months, sometimes longer, especially in competitive athletes.

If/Then Recovery Pathway

• If symptoms are mild and you reduce aggravating activities early, then you may return to normal function within weeks.
• If symptoms are moderate and involve ongoing daily pain, then structured rehabilitation is needed over several months.
• If symptoms are severe, chronic, or linked with other conditions, then longer-term management and possibly specialist care will be required.

Factors That Influence Recovery

• Training load: Too quick a return to high activity increases recurrence risk.
• Strength balance: Weak core or glutes increase stress on the adductors.
• Age: Older tendons take longer to heal.
• Early vs. delayed treatment: Starting rehab early improves outcomes.

Return to Work, Sport, and Lifestyle

• Return to work: Many people with sedentary jobs can continue working with posture adjustments. Physically demanding jobs may require modified duties during recovery.
• Return to sport: A gradual progression from light training to full play is essential. Testing often includes pain-free adductor squeeze and sport-specific drills.
• Long-term outlook: Most people make a good recovery. However, recurrence risk exists if training loads are poorly managed. Preventive exercises and regular conditioning help reduce flare-ups.

Reference: Harøy, J., Clarsen, B., Wiger, E. G., Øyen, M. G., Serner, A., Thorborg, K., & Andersen, T. E. (2019). The Adductor Strengthening Programme prevents groin problems among male football players: a cluster-randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 53(3), 150–157. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-098935

Management of Adductor Tendinopathy

Management of adductor tendinopathy involves activity modification, structured exercise, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing prevention strategies.

What’s the Best Way to Manage Adductor Tendinopathy at Home?

Initial steps usually include:

• Relative rest: Avoid painful activities without complete immobilization.
• Ice or heat: Ice for flare-ups, heat for stiffness.
• Gentle stretching: Focus on the inner thigh and hip flexors.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications if needed (always under medical guidance).

Step-by-Step Self-Help & Relief Tips

1. Identify painful activities (e.g., sprinting, cutting, kicking). Reduce or modify them.
2. Begin gentle stretches for the groin and hip. Hold for 20–30 seconds.
3. Add core strengthening exercises like planks and bridges.
4. Progress to adductor strengthening (side-lying leg lifts, ball squeezes).
5. Reintroduce sport drills gradually once daily movements are pain-free.

These steps help build strength and reduce strain on the tendon.

Evidence-Based Therapy Approaches

• Exercise therapy: Progressive adductor and hip strengthening is the gold standard.
• Manual therapy: Hands-on treatment to improve hip mobility.
• Load management: Gradual increase in training load to avoid flare-ups.
• Lifestyle optimization: Weight management, balanced nutrition, and stress reduction all support healing.
• Community and support: Group rehab programs or sports clubs can help adherence and motivation.

Prevention and Long-Term Strategies

• Maintain strong adductors and glutes with regular exercises.
• Warm up thoroughly before activity.
• Avoid sudden increases in training volume.
• Prioritize recovery strategies such as sleep, hydration, and stress management.

Reference: Weir, A., Jansen, J. A., van de Port, I., van de Sande, H. B., Tol, J. L., & Backx, F. J. (2011). Manual or exercise therapy for long-standing adductor-related groin pain: a randomised controlled clinical trial. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 45(6), 408–413. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.2009.061002

Multidisciplinary Coordinated Care for Adductor Tendinopathy at CARESPACE

CARESPACE provides coordinated, evidence-based care for adductor tendinopathy by combining multiple healthcare disciplines into a personalized plan. Instead of relying on a single type of treatment, you benefit from an integrated approach that addresses pain, movement, recovery, and mental well-being.

How Does CARESPACE Treat Adductor Tendinopathy Differently?

At CARESPACE, you’re supported by a full team of providers working together on your recovery. While traditional care often focuses on one aspect—such as medication or exercise—CARESPACE combines therapies so you get faster results and longer-lasting relief.

For example:

• A physiotherapist may begin by assessing your movement, posture, and strength to identify what’s straining your tendon.
• At the same time, a massage therapist can reduce muscle tension in the inner thigh and hip, helping you move more comfortably.
• If pain is affecting your sleep or mood, you may also see a psychotherapist or mental performance coach to help with coping strategies and stress management.

This coordinated plan means you don’t have to guess what to do next—your team shares information and adjusts your treatment as you progress.

Why Does a Team Approach Help Adductor Tendinopathy Recover Faster?

Adductor tendinopathy affects more than just your tendon—it impacts how you move, sleep, and cope with pain. By addressing these areas together, CARESPACE helps you heal more effectively than with isolated treatment.

Physical Recovery Support

• Chiropractic care can improve hip and pelvic alignment, reducing strain on the adductors.
• Kinesiology and fitness training help rebuild strength and prevent reinjury with guided exercise.
• Acupuncture and naturopathic care may be used to support pain relief and inflammation management in a natural way.

Mental Health & Lifestyle Support

• Psychotherapy helps address frustration, stress, or insomnia linked to ongoing pain.
• Nutrition support provides guidance on foods that reduce inflammation and promote tendon healing.
• Mental performance coaching helps athletes or active clients rebuild confidence in movement after injury.

With this team approach, every part of your recovery—body, mind, and lifestyle—is considered.

A Coordinated Care Journey for Adductor Tendinopathy

Your care plan at CARESPACE is designed to follow your needs through every stage—acute pain, recovery, and long-term prevention.

Acute Phase (first weeks)

• Focus on pain relief and reducing strain.
• You may start with physiotherapy exercises and massage therapy for immediate comfort.
• Chiropractic or acupuncture may be introduced to relieve tightness and improve movement.

Subacute Phase (weeks to months)

• Once pain begins to settle, the emphasis shifts to strengthening and restoring function.
• A kinesiologist or physiotherapist builds a progressive exercise program tailored to your goals.
• Psychotherapy or coaching may be added if pain-related stress or low motivation is interfering with recovery.

Maintenance Phase (long-term)

• After returning to work, sport, or daily life, the focus is on prevention and resilience.
• Ongoing fitness training, ergonomic guidance, and occasional therapy sessions help prevent flare-ups.
• Nutrition and lifestyle advice support tendon health, energy, and recovery capacity.

This pathway ensures that you not only recover from adductor tendinopathy but also stay healthier and more active in the long run.

How CARESPACE Personalizes Treatment for You

No two cases of adductor tendinopathy are the same. At CARESPACE, your treatment plan is personalized based on:

• Severity of symptoms (mild, moderate, or severe).
• Daily demands (athlete vs office worker).
• Lifestyle factors (sleep, nutrition, stress).
• Personal goals (returning to sport, avoiding surgery, staying active at work).

For example, an athlete with severe groin pain might work with a physiotherapist for structured rehab, a kinesiologist for sport-specific drills, and a psychotherapist for performance anxiety. Meanwhile, an office worker with mild symptoms might combine physiotherapy with ergonomic coaching and massage therapy.

This flexibility allows CARESPACE to match care to your unique needs, ensuring faster recovery and lower recurrence risk.

The CARESPACE Advantage for Adductor Tendinopathy

The difference between CARESPACE and traditional care is collaboration. Instead of seeing different providers in isolation, your CARESPACE team works together in real time:

• Shared assessments mean fewer gaps in communication.
• Evidence-based care ensures every therapy choice is backed by research.
• Coordinated plans mean less trial-and-error and quicker results.

This whole-person, multidisciplinary approach means you’re not just treating pain—you’re building strength, balance, and confidence for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• CARESPACE uses a team approach for adductor tendinopathy: physiotherapy, massage, chiropractic, nutrition, psychotherapy, and more.
• Care is personalized to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals.
• You’re supported through all stages: acute pain, active recovery, and long-term prevention.
• Multidisciplinary coordination leads to faster results, lower recurrence risk, and better overall health.

Related Conditions, FAQs, and Disclaimer for Adductor Tendinopathy

Related Conditions for Adductor Tendinopathy

Adductor tendinopathy often overlaps with or is mistaken for other groin and hip conditions. Since the groin is a complex area with multiple muscles, tendons, and joints, several conditions can produce similar symptoms.

• Groin strain: A sudden tear of the inner thigh muscle. Unlike tendinopathy, it has a clear injury event and often causes bruising.
• Hip labral tear: Damage to the cartilage in the hip joint can mimic groin pain but may also cause catching or clicking.
• Inguinal hernia: A bulge in the groin caused by tissue pushing through the abdominal wall. Pain may worsen with coughing or lifting.
• Osteitis pubis: Inflammation at the pubic joint that can cause central groin pain similar to adductor tendon pain.
• Hamstring tendinopathy: Pain in the back of the thigh or buttock, sometimes confused with groin pain.

Understanding these related conditions ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment.