You can use an elastic non-adhesive sports wrap instead, if desired. You’ll just have to tape the wrap in place when you’re done. This wrap works best on bare skin, so remove or “hike up” as much clothing as modesty permits. Or, tape over compression shorts (and shirt) if necessary.
You want the tape to cause some compression of the muscles, but don’t pull it excessively tight. If the leg below the tape loses its normal color or tingles, the tape is too tight and must be removed and replaced more loosely. [4] X Research source
If you’ve used a non-adhesive elastic bandage instead of tape, you’ll need to wrap around the loose end of the bandage with athletic tape to hold it in place. Go around the entire leg once or—even better—twice with the tape. This type of wrap will allow for generally free movement, but should not be seen as a license to return to full physical activity. Consult your doctor or physical therapist for your proper recovery timeline.
For their comfort, place a rolled up towel or some other prop under their lifted heel while you wrap their leg. This leg maneuver tenses up the upper leg muscles and allows for a slightly tighter wrap with the non-adhesive elastic bandage.
Pull the elastic bandage snug as you work. You want it to be tight, but if the person’s leg loses its normal color or begins to tingle, the wrap is too tight and must be immediately replaced. [9] X Research source Non-adhesive elastic bandages work better over clothing than elastic adhesive tapes, but the clothing should be skin-tight (e. g. , compression shorts and shirt). If you choose to do this wrap technique with adhesive tape, wrap it over bare skin as much as possible.
When you’re finished wrapping, ask the injured person to hold the end of the bandage tight while you grab some elastic adhesive tape.
Like any other groin wrapping technique, this one should reduce your pain and increase your mobility, but it isn’t a cure. You are still injured, and should follow your medical professional’s advice about returning to activities. Keep the bandage close to the skin, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. It should be snug and there should not be any wrinkles in it.
You can also buy compression shorts that are specially-made to provide extra support to an injured groin. Both of these products are easier to apply yourself than are tape or elastic bandages, which are best applied by another person. A properly-done tape or bandage job may produce better results, however.
Get your doctor’s input on how often to wrap your groin, how tightly to wrap it, and what types of activities you can do while it is wrapped. You don’t want to risk further injury.
Work with your medical professional regarding your timetable for resuming different levels of activity during your recovery. Groin strains come in three grades. A grade 3 strain means the muscle is completely or nearly completely torn. The recovery time here will be greater than 8 weeks, and surgery may be necessary. Make sure that you stop your activity and begin resting the injured muscles as soon as possible.
Never apply ice or an ice pack directly to your body. The extreme cold can damage your skin.
It is also important to wear the appropriate footwear for the activity to help prevent another injury. Don’t make any sudden movements or changes in direction as this will increase your chances of getting injured again.
