A pulled muscle that occurs suddenly during vigorous activity in a fall, twisting injury, or during a fast run. A groin strain causes pain in the area just below the crease between the lower abdomen and the thigh. What distinguishes a groin strain, or groin pull, is that the pain comes on suddenly. Pain in the groin area that develops gradually over several weeks, without a preceding single event, may be a symptom of a stress fracture in the hip and requires immediate attention from a physician with expertise in sports medicine. A groin strain may be treated for the first 48 hours with ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and gentle stretching exercises when symptoms allow. The upper leg may be wrapped with an elastic bandage to support the area during healing. In an older person, a groin strain may be more severe and take longer to heal. If pain persists, a doctor should be consulted.