Groin Surgery: What It Is, Why You Need It, and How to Recover
If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain in your inner thigh that won’t go away, chances are you’re dealing with a groin injury. When rest, physio, or medication don’t fix it, doctors may suggest groin surgery. In simple terms, the operation fixes torn muscles, damaged tendons, or joint problems around the pelvis and hip.
Most athletes – footballers, rugby players, sprinters – face groin injuries because that area works hard during cutting, kicking, and sudden direction changes. The most common procedures are adductor tendon release, sports hernia repair, and hip arthroscopy for labrum tears. Each surgery targets a specific problem but shares the goal of restoring strength and reducing pain.
What Happens on the Day of Surgery?
The day starts with an anaesthetic – usually a spinal or general one – so you won’t feel anything. Surgeons make a small cut near the groin, then locate the damaged tissue using tiny cameras (in arthroscopic cases). They either stitch torn muscles back together or remove inflamed tissue that’s causing pain. The whole process typically lasts 45 minutes to two hours, depending on complexity.
After the operation you’ll spend a short time in recovery while the anaesthetic wears off. Expect some swelling and bruising; it’s normal and part of healing. Your medical team will give you pain relief instructions and show you how to keep weight off the area safely.
Recovery Timeline and Rehab Tips
The first week is about protecting the repair. Most surgeons recommend crutches or a walker, plus gentle hip‑flexor stretches that don’t strain the incision. Ice packs for 15‑20 minutes several times a day help control swelling.
Weeks two to four focus on regaining range of motion. Light stationary bike work, ankle pumps, and core activation are safe moves if you avoid deep squats or heavy lunges. Physical therapists will guide you through progressive strengthening – starting with isometric adductor holds, then moving to resistance band exercises.
By weeks six to eight many athletes can start sport‑specific drills. This means short sprints, side‑shuffles, and controlled kicking. The key is to listen to your body; sharp pain signals you’re pushing too hard.
Full return to competitive play usually occurs between three to six months post‑surgery. Some people feel ready earlier, but jumping back too soon raises the risk of re‑injury.
Risks and How to Minimise Them
No surgery is 100% safe. Possible complications include infection, nerve irritation, or stiffness. Following post‑op instructions, keeping wounds clean, and attending all physiotherapy sessions dramatically cut these risks.
A big part of staying injury‑free after groin surgery is prevention. Warm up properly with dynamic stretches, strengthen the adductors and hip stabilizers regularly, and avoid sudden increases in training load.
Remember, every body heals at its own pace. If you’re unsure about any step – whether it’s a stretch or an exercise – ask your therapist. Staying informed and proactive makes the road back to sport smoother and safer.
