How to Rehabilitate a Partially Torn Hamstring

A significant injury to the hamstring--the group of muscles and tendons in the back of the upper leg--will heal over time. The problem is that if the rehabilitation process for a hamstring strain or tear is not followed properly, the injury may not heal completely. To gain full movement and muscle movement, a specific rehabilitation process must be followed.

Things You'll Need

• Ice/cold pack
• Elastic bandage
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Crutches

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Instructions

Rehabilitating a Partially Torn Hamstring

• 1

  Immobilize the hamstring. Keep pressure off the hamstring by lying down as much as possible and using crutches when walking.

• 2

  Apply an ice pack or crushed ice in a sealed plastic bag to the torn hamstring. Apply the ice to the injured area for at least 30 minutes every two hours the first few days after the injury.

• 3

  Elevate the injured leg whenever you are lying down. Use pillows to elevate the injured hamstring above heart level to control swelling.

• 4

  Take anti-inflammatory medicine, such as ibuprofen, to minimize the swelling in the injured hamstring.

• 5

  Begin a light exercise and stretching program of riding a stationary bicycle or stretching in a swimming pool. Light exercise and stretching should not begin before at least two weeks after the injury--possibly longer with more severe strains.

• 6

  Implement a stretching program for the torn hamstring. Stretch the hamstring before and after any exercise.