Is Your Groin Pain Actually Coming From Your Back?

Why groin pain is often misdiagnosed

Most people assume groin pain is a muscle issue or hip problem.

Sometimes it is.

But in many cases…

The real source is somewhere else entirely.


The Overlooked Cause of Groin Pain

Nerves from the lower back travel into the hip and groin region.

If those nerves are irritated, you can feel pain:

  • In the front of the hip 
  • Deep in the groin 
  • Even down the thigh 

Without any obvious hip injury.


Common Causes of Frontal Groin Pain

Hip Joint Issues

  • Labral irritation 
  • Joint restriction 

Muscle Strains

  • Adductor strain 
  • Overuse injuries 

Nerve Irritation

  • Often originating from the lower back 
  • Frequently overlooked 

Disc Problems

  • Can refer pain into the groin 
  • Often mistaken for hip pathology 

Why Traditional Treatments Don’t Work

Rest, stretching, and medication may reduce symptoms, but:

They don’t fix the source if it’s coming from the spine.


How We Identify the Real Cause

At Elwart Family Chiropractic, we evaluate:

  • Spine function 
  • Hip mobility 
  • Nerve involvement 
  • Movement patterns 

This ensures accurate diagnosis, not guesswork.


Our Treatment Approach

Chiropractic Adjustments

  • Restore motion 
  • Improve alignment 
  • Reduce nerve irritation 

Shockwave Therapy

  • Breaks down scar tissue 
  • Stimulates healing 
  • Ideal for chronic groin strains 

Intersegmental Traction

  • Improves spinal mobility 
  • Reduces stiffness 

Spinal Decompression Therapy

  • Reduces disc pressure 
  • Relieves nerve irritation 

Corrective Exercises

  • Strengthen hip and core 
  • Improve stability 

Signs Your Groin Pain May Be Coming From Your Back

  • Pain changes with position 
  • Pain comes and goes 
  • You also have lower back discomfort 
  • Stretching doesn’t fix it 

These are key indicators of a spine-related issue.


Why Diagnosis Matters

Treat the wrong area = no results

Treat the source = faster recovery


FAQs About Groin Pain

1. Can a pinched nerve cause groin pain?

Yes. Nerves from the lower back can refer pain into the groin area.


2. How do I know if it’s my hip or my back?

A proper evaluation is needed. Symptoms alone can be misleading.


3. Does stretching help groin pain?

It can help muscle-related pain, but not if the cause is nerve-related.


4. What does a hip labral issue feel like?

Typically deep joint pain, clicking, or catching sensations.


5. Can chiropractic care help groin pain?

Yes, especially when the issue involves the spine or nerve irritation.


6. How long does groin pain take to heal?

Depends on the cause. Muscle strains heal faster than nerve-related issues.


7. Is imaging always necessary?

Not always, but it may be used if symptoms persist or diagnosis is unclear.


8. Can disc problems cause groin pain without back pain?

Yes. Referred pain can occur even without obvious back discomfort.


Don’t Guess! Get the Right Answer

Groin pain can be complex, but when you identify the true cause, it becomes much easier to treat.


Ready to Fix the Problem?

At Elwart Family Chiropractic, we specialize in identifying the source of pain and building a plan that actually works. Schedule your appointment today.