Hamstring strains or injuries are very common in sports that involve sprinting such as running, basketball and soccer. Pain is usually felt at the back of the thigh and possibly involves more than one muscle. Non-surgical treatment is very effective at treating hamstring injuries.
There are three hamstring muscles the bicep femoris, semitendinosus, semimembranosus. The main role of the hamstring muscles is to help with leg extensions and knee flexions. Starting from the ischial tuberosity they insert the lower leg and crosses the knee.
Depending on the severity of the injury the hamstrings can experience a partial or complete tear or a pull. They can also occur in the tendon fibres close to the bone or within the muscle belly.
Grades of Hamstring Strains
Grade 1: mild symptoms, no or little impact in gait and heals quickly
Grade 2: partial tear and starting to impact normal gait
Grade 3: strain is a complete tear, impacting gait and requires months of healing
Straings are caused by muscle overload through rapid sprinting or excessive extension with muscle tightness.
Risk factors
- Tight hamstrings
- Poor conditioning
- Fatigue
- Muscle imbalance
Commonly seen in
- Athletes that engage in sports such as track, soccer, football and basketball.
- Growing teenagers
- Dancers
- Runners
- Older athletes
Symptoms
- Weakness in the hamstrings
- Swelling after initial injury
- Bruising in the insertion point below the knee
Treatment
- Avoiding aggravating activities
- RICE or POLICE protocol
- Range of motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Gradual return to sport
If you have a hamstring strain, our team are here to help with your rehab and get you back to full fitness as soon as possible.
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