Testicular Pain After Underwear Compression: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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The left testicle has started to ache subtly after being caught in the underwear?


Hello Doctor, five days ago while sitting cross-legged, my left testicle got caught in my underwear, causing immediate pain.
I quickly stood up, but since then, I have been experiencing a dull ache.
I was very worried about testicular torsion, so the next day I went to see a doctor at Renai Hospital in Taipei.
He performed a Doppler ultrasound and did a slight physical examination, but he did not perform the cremasteric reflex test or elevate the scrotum.
The ultrasound indicated normal blood flow, but he only examined one side.
He mentioned that testicular torsion would cause significant pain and the testicle would feel hard, while mine felt normal in firmness.
He confidently stated that my condition was not torsion and suggested that I might have some unknown inflammation.
He prescribed the following medications: Dolcol 250 mg, Famotidine 20 mg, Zeropin 75 mg, and Purfen 400 mg, and sent me home.
However, after taking the medication for five days, I still have a dull ache.
I am really worried that there might be torsion despite the appearance not changing.
The pain now feels like a dull ache where the bottom of the testicle connects to the upper part, radiating to the groin, bladder, and lower back.
Elevating the scrotum has also become slightly painful.
Additionally, I have noticed some swelling near the glans close to the corona, which feels tight and painful against the foreskin.
I would like to ask the doctor about the effects of the medications prescribed and whether it is possible that I have testicular torsion.
Can torsion cause swelling? I have not experienced any swelling, and the affected testicle hangs lower.
I am very concerned about atypical torsion.
Is it possible for torsion to occur in an up-and-down manner rather than side-to-side? However, if it were inflammation or a strain, would the pain last this long? Can there be muscle strain in the area of the testicle and scrotum? Is the pain typically a dull ache? Thank you, doctor, for your patience in reading this.
I am really very anxious and would appreciate your clarification!

Fanrao de Daxuesheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/02

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: The information provided here is for reference only and cannot replace a physician's examination, assessment, or testing.
I would like to ask about the effects of the medication mentioned above --> anti-inflammatory and pain relief.
Is it possible that I have testicular torsion? --> Without examination, I cannot answer that; your description does not seem to indicate testicular torsion, as torsion typically causes swelling.
I do not have swelling, and the affected side's testicle is lower --> It would swell; I am concerned it might be atypical torsion.
Is it possible for testicular torsion to occur in an up-and-down manner rather than side-to-side? --> Atypical presentations can occur, but would inflammation or a strain cause pain for this long? --> Without examination, I cannot explain whether there could be a muscle strain in the area of the testicle or scrotum.
Is the pain a dull ache? --> It is possible.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/10/02

More Info


Testicular pain can be a concerning symptom, especially following an incident where the testicle may have been compressed or injured. Based on your description, it sounds like you experienced a significant amount of discomfort after your testicle was caught in your underwear while sitting cross-legged. You sought medical attention promptly, which is a wise decision, as testicular torsion (twisting of the testicle) is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

From your account, the Doppler ultrasound indicated normal blood flow to the testicle, which is a reassuring sign. In cases of testicular torsion, the blood flow is typically compromised, leading to severe pain and swelling. The fact that your doctor noted that the testicle appeared soft and normal in consistency further decreases the likelihood of torsion.
The medications prescribed to you—Dolcol (a pain reliever), famotidine (an acid reducer), zeropin (an anti-inflammatory), and purfen (another pain reliever)—are aimed at managing your pain and any potential inflammation. It’s important to note that while these medications can help alleviate discomfort, they may not address the underlying cause if there is an injury or inflammation that requires further evaluation.

Your ongoing pain, particularly the radiation to the groin and lower back, could be due to several factors. It’s possible that you may have sustained a minor injury to the surrounding structures, such as the spermatic cord or the muscles in the groin area. Muscle strains or ligamentous injuries can indeed cause lingering discomfort, and the pain can sometimes be referred to other areas, such as the abdomen or lower back.

Regarding your concerns about testicular torsion, it’s important to clarify that torsion typically presents with sudden, severe pain, often accompanied by swelling and sometimes nausea. The pain is usually localized to the affected testicle, and the testicle may appear higher in the scrotum compared to the other side. While torsion can occur in various orientations, it is most commonly lateral (side-to-side). However, the absence of significant swelling and the normal appearance of the testicle on ultrasound make torsion less likely.

As for the swelling you mentioned near the glans of the penis, this could be a separate issue, possibly related to irritation or inflammation. Conditions such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or other infections could cause localized swelling and discomfort.
Given that your symptoms have persisted despite medication, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider further evaluation, including a physical examination focused on the testicles and surrounding structures, and possibly additional imaging if necessary.
In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, the initial evaluation suggests that testicular torsion is unlikely. However, persistent pain warrants further investigation to rule out other potential causes such as inflammation, infection, or injury. It’s essential to communicate your ongoing symptoms to your healthcare provider to ensure appropriate management and peace of mind.

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