Hamstring Injury

The hamstring is a group of three muscles that run along the back of the thigh. These muscles facilitate knee bending and hip extension.

Hamstring injury typically occurs when you strain or pull one of the hamstring muscles.

Hamstring injury is manifested during a sporting event or recreational activity that requires acceleration and deceleration. Playing soccer, basketball, football, tennis, track & field or a similar sport, makes you more susceptible to hamstring injury.

Did you know that dancing can cause hamstring injuries as well? Yes, ballot requires forcefully kicking of the legs vertically which put the hamstrings in a compromised position and can cause pulling.

How do you know if you have a hamstring injury?

When a person undergoes a hamstring injury, typically this injury causes a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the thigh. You might also feel a “popping” or tearing sensation; and within a few hours swelling and tenderness usually develops. Depends on the severity, you may notice bruising or discoloration along the back of the leg, as well as weakness or inability to weight bear on injured extremity.

Treatment:

I recommend that you visit a doctor first; especially with the inability to weight bear on the injured leg because of severe pain. But prior to visiting a doctor you can rest, ice, take over the counter pain medication to relieve the pain and swelling associated with a hamstring injury. Surgery can be indicated if the tear is severe enough.

The number one trick to rehabbing your hamstring is adequate rest. You have to prohibit all physical activity that pulls the hamstring until doctor says it’s okay to start prior activities again.

Injury Prevention:

1. Be sure to make sure your muscles are balance and that your body is in proper alignment.

2. Make sure you train your hamstrings so that the quads don’t over power them.

3. Release overactive muscles and strengthen weak muscles.

4. Enhance flexibility

5. Follow a balanced nutrition plan

6. Proper hydration during event

7. Consult with professional to start on an injury prevention protocol

For help with your injuries or to prevent injury contract your personal physical therapist Dr. Owens via email

Stay Healthy!

Dr. Tristan Owens, physical therapist & injury prevention expert

owensphysicaltherapist@gmail.com