Hamstring Strain
The "hamstring" is actually a group of three muscles that work with the quadriceps to straighten (extend) the leg at the hip and bend (flex) the leg at the knee. The quadriceps muscles are usually much more powerful than the hamstring muscles. As a consequence, the hamstring may become fatigued faster than the quadriceps, leading to a hamstring strain.
Hamstring strains usually cause acute pain and occur during strenuous activity; however, they can develop over days or weeks. Like calf strains, hamstring strains often take a long time to recover and the rate of recurrence is high. But the long-term outcome after a hamstring strain injury is usually excellent and complications are few.
Risk factors
Hamstring injuries are easier to prevent than to cure. Factors that increase the risk of calf and hamstring strains include:
- Previous hamstring injury
- Increasing age
- Sudden change in direction acceleration or deceleration
- Poor strength and flexibility
- Calf or hamstring muscle fatigue
- Muscle strength imbalance between the quadriceps and hamstrings
- Inappropriate or inadequate warm-up
SSPT’s approach to treating a hamstring strain
The treatment of a hamstring strain depends on the severity of the injury. When physical therapy is initiated, treatment for your hamstring strain may include:
- Modalities such as electrical stimulation, ice, or ultrasound to help reduce pain
- Gait analysis and instruction in proper biomechanics
- Joint and soft tissue mobilization
- Therapeutic exercises to restore flexibility and strength
