Woodbridge Physiotherapy Practice
And Sports Injury Clinic
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Tel: 01394 387916

Email: info@woodbridgephysio.co.uk

Woodbridge Physiotherapy Practice Ltd

Prentices Lane

Woodbridge

Suffolk

IP12 4LF

Hamstring injury is the most common soft tissue injury to occur in sport and also the most likely to recur.
It is the a classic sprinting injury, typically occurring just prior to the foot contacting the floor.
The usual cause is overstretching. Poor biomechanics and lack of flexibility can also be predisposing factors.
Diagnosis
Pain at the back of leg either on inside or outside, which is aggravated by stretching out the knee or bending the knee against a resistance. A tender spot can generally be felt somewhere in the back of the thigh.
Symptoms can be similar to sciatica which comes from the lumbar spine.
A typical hamstring strain will resolve in 2-3 weeks. The term chronic will apply to pain lasting longer than 21 days.
Treatment
On the day of injury to day 6 (depending on severity);
 RICE
 Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
The aims of treatment at this stage of pain relief and promotion of healing. There is a high risk of further inujury and movement should be performed through pain free range only, ie NO stretching. Physiotherapy can help with pain relief and healing. After day 5 gentle stretching exercise can be started followed by a graduated strengthening programme. These are best done under the guidance of a physiotherapist.
Biomechanics of The Hamstrings
During the running cycle the hamstrings contract to decelerate the leg in the late forward swing. This action helps to stabilise the knee. During the support phase the hamstrings act concentrically to extend the hip and to continue to stabilise the knee by preventing knee extension. During push off, the hamstrings help to flex the knee.
Hamstring Injury