Diagnosing a groin tear starts with a detailed physical examination. A doctor will assess your symptoms, including sharp or sudden pain in the groin area, swelling, bruising, and muscle weakness. They may ask how the injury occurred and perform specific movement tests to evaluate pain and range of motion. Tenderness when pressing on the inner thigh or difficulty with certain motions, such as kicking or changing direction quickly, can indicate a tear. The degree of pain and functional limitation often helps classify the injury’s severity.

To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as hernias, hip impingement, or osteitis pubis, imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound may be recommended. These scans help visualise the soft tissues and identify the exact location and extent of the tear. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing a targeted treatment plan, which may include rest, ice, physiotherapy, and in some cases, surgery. Early intervention leads to faster recovery and reduces the risk of reinjury.