Groin pain and hip arthritis

Published September 20, 2013

People with groin pain should have the problem checked to lower the risk of later developing arthritis of the hip, says research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Groin pain and hip pathology are closely linked:

· About 25% of people develop hip arthritis before the age of 85 years.

· Groin injuries account for about 5% of athletic injuries.

· Groin pain accounts for 10% of visits to sports medicine centres.

Healthcare professionals need to be aware of musculoskeletal groin disorders and groin pain that is not bone-related. Before diagnosing and treating the cause of pain, doctors should assess specific symptoms, their onset and length and then recommend appropriate tests, imaging and referrals.

“Individuals experiencing sudden, onset groin pain associated with trauma or bowel/bladder dysfunction, symptoms like fevers or abdominal discomfort should promptly seek medical attention, but those with chronic pain despite time and conservative management also warrant evaluation,” says study author, Dr Juan Suarez