Groin Pain in Athletes: A Review of Diagnosis and Management.

INTRODUCTION Groin pain is a common symptom in athletes, particularly in sports requiring sudden changes in speed and direction and those involving kicking. Despite a high prevalence of groin pain in this patient cohort, the diagnosis and management of the underlying pathological processes remains a challenge for surgeons and radiologists alike. AIM The aim of this paper is to review the imaging findings and management of the common pathological processes which produce groin pain in athletes. MATERIALS AND METHODS The anatomy of the groin region will be defined as a basis for further discussion. The common pathological processes underlying groin pain such as adductor dysfunction, rectus abdominus injury, osteitis pubis, and femuro-acetabular impingement will then be reviewed and correlating radiological imaging findings presented. Current management options will also be considered. CONCLUSION This paper will aid surgeons and radiologists in navigating the challenging diagnostic and management dilemma of groin pain in athletes.