How Physiotherapy Helped a Footballer Overcome Chronic Groin Pain and Return to Play

Introduction
Groin pain is a common but often frustrating issue for active adults and football players. Many patients suffer for months or even years, trying different treatments with little relief. In this case study, we share how one of our clients overcame a three-year history of groin pain and returned to playing football — pain-free — with a targeted physiotherapy programme at McFerran Physio.

Patient Background
Our client was an active man in his early 40s who loved to play indoor soccer and five-a-side football. Unfortunately, persistent groin pain on both sides (left worse than right) had severely limited his ability to enjoy the sport. Every attempt to play left him in pain for up to two weeks afterwards.

Over the years, he had consulted multiple Physiotherapists, undergone scans, and seen an Orthopaedic hip specialist — all without clear answers. He was told his hips were structurally fine and was advised simply to “get on with it.”

Assessment & Diagnosis
When he came to McFerran Physio, we conducted a thorough subjective history and objective assessment. Key findings included:

• Pain during resisted adduction (bringing the legs toward the midline).
• Pain with groin squeezes (both knees and ankles).
• Significant weakness in the hip adductor (groin) muscles.

With no hip joint or lumbar spine pathology present, we diagnosed bilateral adductor tendinopathy — a condition where the tendons undergo cellular changes, resulting in pain and dysfunction.

Treatment Plan
The goal: Restore tendon health and strength through a progressive loading programme.

Phase 1: Isometric groin squeezes

• Started with 15-second holds using a towel between the knees.
• Progressed to 30 seconds × 5 reps, knees and ankles.

Phase 2: Copenhagen planks

• Began with short-lever Copenhagen holds (inside of knee on bench).

Copenhagen Plank Short Lever

• Progressed to long-lever Copenhagen holds (inside of ankle on bench).

Copenhagen Plank Long Lever

Phase 3: Return to sport activities

• Landing and hopping
• Straight-line jogging
• Change of direction drills
• Controlled ball-striking

Outcome
After eight weeks of progressive rehab, the client returned to full football matches completely pain-free — for the first time in three years. His strength, movement, and confidence were fully restored.

Conclusion
Groin pain doesn’t have to be career-ending — even for weekend warriors or seasoned footballers. If you’re struggling with similar issues, McFerran Physio can help with expert assessment and tailored treatment.
Book your consultation today.