Condition

Signs and Symptoms

Distinguishing Features

Hip flexor strain

Acute pain localized to the muscle belly following overuse or sudden movements

Absence of specific traumatic event; pain localized to muscle rather than bony origin

Iliopsoas bursitis

Gradual-onset anterior hip pain exacerbated by hip flexion

Gradual onset and lack of inciting traumatic event

Femoral neck stress fracture

Groin or anterior thigh pain of insidious onset, exacerbated by weight-bearing

Identified by MRI or bone scan

Labral tear

Anterior hip or groin pain with associated catching or locking sensation

Labral pathology confirmed through MRI arthrography

Inguinal hernia

Groin pain that may exacerbate with physical activity; groin bulge may be appreciated on physical exam

A palpable bulge in the groin area during strain

Osteitis pubis

Chronic, exertional pelvic pain; pubic symphysis tenderness; midline location

Midline location and bilateral symptoms

Hip pointer injury

Localized pain and swelling over the iliac crest following direct trauma

Pain is located posterosuperiorly over the iliac crest; a history of trauma is often elicited

FAI

Hip pain and restricted range of motion, particularly during flexion and internal rotation

Imaging studies reveal cam or pincer deformities.

Sports hernia (athletic pubalgia)

Chronic groin pain without a palpable hernia; exacerbated by sports activities

Absence of a bony injury; often a diagnosis of exclusion