Skip to content

The Science Behind the Best Treatment for Adductor Strains

The Science Behind the Best Treatment for Adductor Strains

Adductor strains can be severe pain in the groin area, severely limiting day-to-day activities for many. An adductor strain causes a sudden pull or tear on the muscles on the inside of the thigh. As many as 1 in 10 sportspeople may experience this injury at some point in their careers. However, the injury is not only limited to athletes; anyone who exercises or is prone to sudden movements can be prone to adductor strains. The severity of this injury can range from mild to severe, and the necessary treatment can vary too. This article aims to shed light on the most effective treatments for adductor strains.

The first step of treatment for an adductor strain is always rest. Ice packing can help reduce inflammation and swelling of the area. The use of crutches can prevent putting weight on the injured area and can be used until the symptoms go away. Pain-relieving medications can be used as well as pain management methods such as icing, compression, and elevation (RICE). The next step of treatment is to visit a physician. A doctor can diagnose the injury and determine its severity. Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound scans may be used to identify the specific cause of discomfort. As soon as the injury is characterized as a muscle strain, your doctor may refer you to a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy can greatly help in the recovery of an adductor strain. This treatment may involve stretching, and exercises. Physiotherapy works to help the patient return to normal activities without limiting signs of pain. In some severe cases, the patients may require surgical intervention. This is extremely rare and only in cases where the muscle is significantly strained or torn and cannot heal without surgery. Surgical operations can be done through many methods as open surgery or minimally invasive surgery. Medical consultations are still needed to determine the best approach to action.

How to Treat Adductor Strains

Adductor strains can be a frustrating injury to deal with, especially for those who are active and enjoy sports or exercise. While rest and ice can often help in the first few days after the injury, it’s important to seek professional treatment to ensure proper healing. Massage can help improve blood flow to the affected area, while physio can assist in regaining strength and range of motion. Chiropractic care may also be beneficial in realigning the muscles and joints. Each person’s healing journey may look different, so it’s important to work with a medical professional to determine the best course of treatment for you. Don’t let an adductor strain keep you on the sidelines for too long – with the right care, you can get back in the game.

How to Relieve Pain From Adductor Strains

Adductor strains can be debilitating injuries for anyone who is physically active. This type of injury occurs when the adductor muscles in the groin are pulled or torn causing pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are many ways to relieve the pain from adductor strains. One effective method is massage which can help loosen tight muscles in the affected area. Physiotherapy is also a great option as it provides exercises and stretches that can be tailored specifically to the individual’s needs. Another option that can provide relief is chiropractic care which can help realign the body and promote healing. It’s essential to seek treatment early on to avoid further damage and to get back to your active lifestyle as soon as possible.

Who Should I See For Adductor Strains

When it comes to adductor strains, seeking professional care is essential for a quick and efficient recovery. There are a few options to consider, including a registered massage therapist (RMT), physiotherapists and chiropractors. Massage can be particularly beneficial for reducing muscle tension and promoting blood flow in the affected area. Physiotherapy can assist with strengthening and stretching exercises, ultimately improving mobility and decreasing the chance of re-injury. Chiropractic care applies gentle manipulation techniques to help reduce pain and increase the range of motion in the hip joint. Ultimately, the choice between these options will depend on individual preferences and the severity of the injury. Regardless of which option you choose, seeking professional care is vital to a successful recovery.

Top 5 Tips to Relieve Pain From Adductor Strains

Adductor strains can cause a great deal of discomfort and hinder one’s physical activities. Fortunately, there are effective ways to relieve the pain and promote healing. One of the recommended options is massage, which can help with the relaxation and mobility of the affected muscles. Physiotherapy is also useful in providing exercises and stretches that can alleviate the strain and improve strength. Chiropractic care can aid in realigning the pelvis and reducing pressure on the adductors. Additionally, staying hydrated, using ice treatment and resting the affected area are crucial steps to take in the recovery process. By utilizing a combination of these tips, individuals can alleviate the discomfort and get back to their daily routines.

10 Best Ways to Treat Adductor Strains

Adductor strains can be painful and limit your range of motion. There are several other effective ways to treat adductor strains. Here are the 10 best ways:
1. Rest and avoid aggravating activities: Give your adductor muscles time to heal by avoiding activities that strain or stretch them further.
2. Ice: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the initial 48-72 hours. This helps reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Compression: Wrap the injured area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve to provide support and reduce swelling.
4. Elevation: Elevate your leg above heart level whenever possible to reduce swelling and promote healing.
5. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, consult your healthcare provider before using them.
6. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises: Once the initial pain and inflammation subside, gradually introduce gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to promote healing and prevent muscle imbalances.
7. Heat Treatment: After the initial acute phase, heat treatment, such as warm compresses or a warm bath, can help relax the muscles and improve blood circulation.
8. Ultrasound treatment: Ultrasound can help reduce pain, increase blood flow, and promote healing in the affected area. This treatment is usually performed by a trained healthcare professional.
9. Electrical stimulation: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) units or other electrical stimulation techniques can help relieve pain and promote healing.
10. Gradual return to activity: Once you’ve recovered sufficiently, gradually reintroduce the activities that initially caused the strain. Start with low intensity and gradually increase as tolerated.

Remember to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist, who can assess the severity of your injury and provide appropriate guidance and treatment specific to your condition.

Adductor strain can be highly painful and in some cases limit one’s daily activities. Fortunately, effective treatments for adductor strains exist, including RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) techniques, pain management methods, physiotherapy, and in rare cases, surgery. While one may take time to recover, these treatments can offer relief and help patients return to normal activities with minimum restrictions. As always, patients are strongly advised to consult with their medical professionals for the best possible course of action.

If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!

Picture of Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT

Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT

Physiotherapist
Nitin is an internationally trained physiotherapist and has been practicing in Canada since 2015. After graduating in 2009, Nitin started as a physiotherapist in a cardiothoracic and vascular surgery team under the guidance of an eminent cardiac surgeon. His interest and passion in the field of sports and musculoskeletal rehabilitation made him switch from acute care to a musculoskeletal rehabilitation setting. Nitin blends various hands-on physiotherapy techniques with therapeutic exercises to achieve his client’s goals. He is certified in the McKenzie method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT): Lumbar spine, Mulligan concepts and personalized blood flow restriction rehabilitation (PBFR). His clients vary from weekend warriors to elite athletes. He is a huge advocate of the ‘Looking beyond the pain’ model to provide clients with the best care possible. Exercises and activity modification are always important components of his treatment plans to empower clients to reach their health goals.

CARESPACE Google Reviews