How to Treat a Hamstring Tear

The hamstrings are a group of three muscles that run roughly from the ischium on the pelvis, to the outside of the knee on the back of the leg. One or more of these muscles can be strained to the point of tearing during physical activity. Symptoms of a torn hamstring include a sharp pain in the back of the leg often followed by swelling or bruising. Effective healing of the hamstring begins by applying RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), and continues by seeking treatment from a health professional.

Things You'll Need

• ice
• compression bandage
• sports doctor

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Instructions

• 1

  Rest the injured leg.

• 2

  Apply ice to the injured leg. For the first 48 hours, it is important not to apply heat to the injured area. A package of frozen peas, or crushed ice in a zip lock bag are ideal for icing down the injured hamstring.

• 3

  Wrap the injured hamstring with a compression bandage (such as an Ace brand bandage). Do not wrap it too tightly, but make sure there is sufficient pressure to discourage continued swelling.

• 4

  Elevate the injured leg. This tends to reduce swelling by allowing gravity to remove excess fluid from the affected tissues.

• 5

  Seek the advice of a medical professional, preferably one specializing in sports injuries. A medical professional will determine the severity of the injury and can prescribe medications and mobility aids. Physicians can also prescribe several visits to a physical therapist, who can, in turn, provide you with stretches and strengthening exercises, ultrasound, and thermal treatments.