Expert Interview - Physiotherapist on Groin Strains
Premiership Physiotherapist Neal Reynolds talks about initial treatment of groin strains, stretching, strengthening and late stage rehab.
In the early stages it is important to consider the mechanism of the injury which gives an indication of exactly what has happened and how severe it may be.
Treatment-wise, ice and compression are applied immediately. This can be a little more difficult due to the location of the injury so compression machines may not be as effective. Ice baths are good for groin injuries, as are compression shorts. The aim of this treatment is to get the injury into the inflammation stage as quickly as possible, and then out the others side again. Neal recommends icing for 20 minutes every hour!
Electrotherapy such as ultrasound, short-wave and laser may then be used up until the first week. Then hot and cold would be used to flush out waste products. Massage wouldn't be used in the very early stages as it is very tender and may still be bleeding. Massage then starts lightly after 4-5 days, with increases in depth and pain allows.
