How are a pulled groin and a hernia different?

Difficult: They can give you many of the same symptoms. Best to have an experienced md examine you. Rarely a study like cat scan may be necessary. Sometimes you have to wait and see if the pain goes away (strain) or whether a lump develops (hernia). This can take months to years.

No bulge, No hernia: Both groin hernias and muscle strains can cause groin pain (although the strain usually hurts more) and may be difficult to distinguish. However, groin strains will not cause a bulge in the groin, whereas hernias do. The bulge tends to protrude with exertion and recede when laying down. If in doubt, i recommend that you see a general surgeon. A simple exam may answer this question in minutes.