Athletic Pubalgia: What it is and How to Deal with It

Athletic pubalgia is a condition in which recurring or constant pain is felt in the region where the lower section of the abdomen and the upper thigh come together. In most cases, the condition is caused due to some type of strenuous physical activity, such as engaging in sports or an injury sustained in an accident. Athletic pubalgia can also come about due to infections or the development of tumors in the pubic area.

Many people assume that athletic pubalgia is the same as testicular pain in men. While pain originating in the testicles can in turn lead to the development of athletic pubalgia, the two conditions are unique. Women as well as men can sustain injuries in the general area of the groin and thus experience the pain associated with athletic pubalgia.

Symptoms that indicate the presence of athletic pubalgia include a slow but consistent that seems to get worse over the course of several days. If left untreated, the pain will begin to spread throughout the entire groin area, up into the abdomen, and even into the lower back. As the condition worsens, the low-grade constant pain may be punctuated with short bursts of more severe pain, not unlike the discomfort experienced with kidney stones. Some people also experience nausea and fever as the condition progresses.

In general, it is a good idea to consult a physician if the pain does not subside after four or five days. A doctor can conduct a physical examination that will help to ensure there are no obvious physical issues that may be leading to the pain. Your physician can also run tests to determine if there is any damage to bone or an infection of any tissues in the general area of the groin that may be triggering the pain.

When the origin of the issue is minor, such as with a muscle strain, there is a good chance that the doctor will recommend the use of over the counter medication to help ease the pain. Simple medications like aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can be used as needed, or in accordance with any instructions issued by the doctor. These medications will make it easier to function while the body's immune system deals with any inflammation that may have set up as a result of the strained muscles. Your doctor may also recommend the use of ice packs several times a day to help with any swelling or to numb any pain in the groin or lower back.

In situations where there is some reason other than muscle strain for the development of athletic pubalgia, your doctor may choose to treat the underlying condition while also providing you with instructions on how to minimize the pain until the treatments resolve the underlying issue. In most cases, the condition can be resolved in a short period of time, bringing an end to the pain and allowing you to resume your normal activities.