Medically Reviewed by Dr Wang Lushun
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
MBBS (S'pore), MRCS (Edinburgh), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edinburgh)
It can be worrying when groin pain arising from musculoskeletal issues does not go away as expected. You may find yourself questioning whether it is just a strain or something more that needs attention, especially when the discomfort starts to affect your daily movements or activities.
Since several orthopaedic conditions can cause similar symptoms, identifying the exact source of pain is not always straightforward. The groin area is closely linked to the hip joint, muscles, tendons and surrounding structures, which can make self-diagnosis difficult. A hip specialist can provide a more detailed and structured evaluation to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate care.
Groin pain can arise from a variety of sources, which is why it is not always easy to identify the exact cause. In some cases, it may be due to a simple muscle strain from physical activity or overuse. However, when the pain persists or keeps returning, it may be linked to deeper structures such as the hip joint, tendons, or surrounding soft tissues.
Conditions affecting the hip, such as labral tears, joint inflammation, or early wear and tear, can sometimes present as groin pain rather than pain directly in the hip. Other possible causes may include hernias or nerve-related issues, which can produce similar symptoms.
Because multiple conditions can overlap in this area, persistent groin pain often requires a more careful and thorough evaluation to determine the true source of the problem.
Not all groin pain requires specialist care, especially if it is mild and improves with rest. However, when the pain persists or begins to interfere with your daily routine, it may be a sign that a more thorough evaluation is needed. You may want to consider seeing a specialist if you experience:
Evaluating persistent groin pain involves a structured approach to identify whether the source is the hip joint itself or surrounding structures such as muscles, tendons or the lower spine. A hip specialist will typically assess your condition in several main steps:
Your specialist will ask when the pain started, whether it developed gradually or after an injury, and what activities tend to trigger it. They may also ask about sports, repetitive movements or prolonged sitting, as well as any previous hip or lower back issues. This helps narrow down whether the cause is mechanical, inflammatory or related to overuse.
You may be asked to describe the exact location and nature of the pain, such as whether it is sharp, dull or deep in the groin. Pain felt deep in the front of the hip is often linked to intra-articular issues such as labral tears or early arthritis, while pain that radiates may suggest involvement of nearby structures.
The specialist will assess your hip range of motion, strength and stability. They may gently move your leg into different positions to see what reproduces your symptoms. Walking pattern (gait) and posture may also be evaluated to identify any imbalance or compensation.
Specific manoeuvres are used to pinpoint the source of pain. For example, certain movements that involve bending and rotating the hip can help identify conditions such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) or labral irritation. Other tests may help distinguish hip-related pain from issues in the lower back or pelvis.
If further evaluation is required, imaging tests may be recommended. X-rays are useful for assessing bone structure and joint space, while MRI scans provide more detailed information about soft tissues such as cartilage, labrum and surrounding muscles.
Once the cause of your groin pain has been identified, the specialist will explain the findings in a clear and understandable way. This helps you better understand what is contributing to your symptoms and what to expect moving forward.
Treatment is typically tailored to your specific condition, severity of symptoms, and lifestyle needs. In many cases, this may involve non-surgical options such as physiotherapy, activity modification or medication to manage pain and improve function.
If the condition is more complex or does not respond to conservative treatment, other interventions such as hip replacement surgery may be considered. The goal is to relieve pain, restore mobility and help you return to your daily activities as comfortably as possible.
Persistent groin pain can be difficult to understand, especially when the cause is not immediately clear. A thorough evaluation by a hip specialist can help identify the underlying issue and guide appropriate treatment. With the right diagnosis and care, it is possible to manage symptoms and return to more comfortable movement.
At Arete Orthopaedic Centre, we provide personalised care for patients experiencing persistent groin pain, with a focus on accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Dr Wang Lushun brings over two decades of experience in hip and musculoskeletal conditions, helping patients find clarity and relief through a structured and patient-centred approach. If you are experiencing ongoing discomfort, contact our clinic to arrange a consultation and take the first step towards recovery.
Yes, some hip conditions can present as groin pain rather than pain in the hip joint itself. This is why a proper evaluation is important to identify the true source.
Yes, groin pain often occurs on one side, especially if it is related to muscle strain, joint issues, or imbalances.
It is helpful to note when your symptoms started, what triggers them, and any previous injuries or treatments. This information can support a more accurate assessment.
In some cases, an initial diagnosis can be made during the first consultation, although additional tests may sometimes be needed for confirmation.
MBBS (S’pore), MRCS (Edin), MMed (Ortho), FRCS (Ortho) (Edin)
With over 20 years of experience, Dr Wang Lushun is an orthopaedic surgeon who specialises in treating a wide range of sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. He has in-depth experience in minimally invasive surgery and advanced robotic surgery. Dr Wang provides orthopaedic care to athletes and everyday individuals throughout their journey to recovery.
