The hamstring muscle is a group of large, powerful muscles that span the
back of the thigh, from the lower pelvis to the back of the shin bone, specifically
the semimembranosus, semitendinosus and biceps femoris. It is the muscle group that
works to extend the hip joint and flex the knee joint.
The hamstring is used in many sporting activities, as well as normal daily
activities. Sports where hamstring injuries are commonly found are those
that involve sudden accelerations, such as track and field, soccer, and basketball. A “tight” hamstring
is found in those who sit a lot or do not stretch regularly.
A hamstring injury can also occur as a result of a direct blow to the muscle,
such as being kicked in the back of the thigh, or falling on the back of
the thigh.
Hamstring injuries are classified in 3 categories:
Grade 1 - mild strain with few muscle fibers being torn.
Grade 2 - moderate strain with a definite loss in strength.
Grade 3 - complete tear of the hamstrings.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
Hamstring sprain or strain
Hamstring rupture
Symptoms:
Sudden sharp pain in the back of the thigh, usually in full stride
Onset of pain at the beginning or near the end of sports activities
If the tendon ruptures, may be unable to stand or walk
Tight hamstrings can contribute to, and/or be mistaken for low back
pain
Signs to look for:
Onset of pain or weakness during an explosive movement, such as sprinting
May be an audible pop at the time of injury
Pain with sitting or while walking uphill or up stairs
Swelling and redness accompany the more severe injuries
Possible Causes:
Muscle fatigue while involved in strenuous exercises that demand hamstring
use
Inadequate warm-up and stretching
Lack of lower back flexibility
Abnormal biomechanics, such as an anterior pelvic tilt
Acute injury
Goals:
Heal from acute injury
Restore flexibility and strength to leg and lower back muscles
Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support,
such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot
accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support
Do not wear pumps or heels until – and only if – condition is healed
and then only on a restricted basis
Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
For exercise, use shoes with titanium springs
Activities:
Medical care and the R.I.C.E. regimen - Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
as appropriate
Reduction of activity until symptoms abate and shoes and arch supports
in place
Alternate weight bearing exercising (running, walking) with non-weight
bearing activities such as swimming and bicycling
Regular stretching of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon
and arch structure
This information does not constitute a diagnosis
of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The
information has been compiled from sources available to the general public
and referenced below. Copyright 2005 Carole Romig
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