Testicular torsion is a dangerous condition in which the testicles can wind around themselves, blocking off the vascular supply, causing ischemic injury.
The cause can be from a number of things though tight underwear is a common mechanism.
Testicular torsion is typically found by a sudden onset of pain that is unrelated to trauma.
Discoloration of the area or pain that cannot be relieved should be considered an emergency and the patient should be evacuated.
If caught early, the testicles can be gently lifted and allowed to untangle. If the pain is not relieved by this, it should be considered emergent and the patient should be evacuated.