Wit the start of hockey season, it’s important to address one of the most frequent conditions associated with the sport, which is groin pain. This type of pain can occur in other contexts, but it is not uncommon for ice hockey players to seek physical therapy for pain of this type.
In fact, the unstable surface, “stop and go” movement, changes in direction, and the motion of the skates all place increased strain on the structures located in the groin. Furthermore, the goalie’s butterfly position places repeated tension on all of these structures.
The groin is the area between the pubis and the thigh. Several structures run through it, including muscles, but also nerves, blood vessels, and tendons. Different structures may cause groin pain. Here are the explanations.
First of all, the muscles involved are the quadriceps, the adductors, and the psoas. These are the main muscles located in the area. The muscles themselves are mostly in the thigh, but their respective tendons are very much present in the groin.
It could also be the case that a nerve is compressed, either peripherally or in the lumbar area, where the nerve orginates. If so, it is important to identify any abnormal movement in the lumbar and sacro-iliac regions, in order to determine the cause.
It is important to note any swelling, weakness, or muscular tension, since these help better target the origin of the pain. A physiotherapy evaluation can therefore determine the cause of the pain, and treat it appropriately. Furthermore, specific exercises will be recommended depending on the level of injury and the irritability of the condition. Sometimes, the recommendation will be to stop playing the sport.
Do not hesitate to consult your physiotherapist for advice and treatment in order to get back on your skates! Happy Ice Hockey Season!
