Hard Lumps After Groin Impact: Causes and Concerns - Dermatology

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A lump or hard mass appears after an impact to the groin area?


Last week, while riding my bicycle, the brakes failed going downhill, causing me to accelerate and crash into an iron gate.
I experienced immediate and severe pain in my groin area, to the point where I could barely move.
During the ambulance ride, the pain intensified significantly.
Now, eight days later, I have developed a hard, elongated lump at the edge of my groin area, which seems to have caused some deformation.
The edges are still very painful, and the area appears discolored.
The protruding hard lump looks normal, but it feels very strange and hard to the touch.
A few days ago, I visited a gynecologist for an ultrasound, and both my uterus and ovaries were found to be normal.
However, I am very concerned about this large, hard, elongated mass that is painful and deformed, especially since there are no visible bruises on the surface of the two protruding areas, just a very hard lump overall.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/04

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


It could be a hematoma; I recommend consulting a surgeon.

Reply Date: 2023/11/04

More Info


It sounds like you've experienced a significant impact to your groin area, which has resulted in a hard lump and considerable pain. Given the details you've provided, it's important to understand the potential causes and concerns associated with such an injury.

When you sustain a trauma to the groin, particularly from a bicycle accident, several things can happen. The hard lump you are feeling could be due to a few different factors:
1. Hematoma Formation: After an injury, blood can accumulate under the skin or in the tissues, forming a hematoma. This can create a hard, swollen area that may be painful to touch. Even if there is no visible bruising, internal bleeding can still occur, leading to a hard lump.

2. Soft Tissue Injury: The impact may have caused damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the area. This can lead to swelling and the formation of scar tissue, which might feel hard and could be tender.

3. Lymphadenopathy: Sometimes, trauma can cause nearby lymph nodes to swell in response to injury or inflammation. This could also contribute to the feeling of a hard lump.

4. Inguinal Hernia: In some cases, trauma can lead to an inguinal hernia, where tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. This can present as a lump in the groin area, and it may become more pronounced with certain movements or activities.

5. Bone Injury: Although less common, it's possible that the impact could have caused a fracture or other injury to the pelvic bones, which might also lead to swelling and pain.

Given that you have already sought medical attention and had an ultrasound that ruled out issues with your uterus and ovaries, it’s a good sign that some serious conditions have been excluded. However, the persistent pain and the hard lump warrant further investigation. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Follow-Up with a Healthcare Provider: Since the lump is still hard and painful, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to get a clearer picture of what is happening beneath the surface.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the lump, such as size, shape, or pain level. If you notice any new symptoms, such as fever, increased swelling, or changes in mobility, seek medical attention promptly.

- Rest and Ice: In the meantime, resting the area and applying ice can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help manage discomfort, but consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

In conclusion, while the hard lump and pain you are experiencing could be due to a variety of factors related to your recent injury, it is crucial to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide the best guidance based on a thorough evaluation of your condition. Remember, your health and well-being are the top priority, so don't hesitate to seek further medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen.

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