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Care for a Hamstring Injury

The hamstring runs along the back of the leg and consists of a large group of three muscles. Hamstring injuries can vary from being minor to severe, as in some cases the muscle could rupture. Several factors could contribute to a hamstring injury including flexibility, strength, muscle imbalance, fatigue and a poor warm-up before strenuous activity.

  1. Symptoms

    • A hamstring injury may have occurred if there is a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the thigh. Sometimes there may be a snap, swelling or even bruising. In some cases, the knee may not be able to extend all the way.

    RICE

    • RICE stands for "rest, ice, compression, elevation." This is the most common treatment for minor hamstring injuries. Doctors recommend putting an ice compress on the area and elevating it, if possible.

    Medication

    • Aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve the pain and swelling of a hamstring injury. However, experts say it could repress clotting of torn and bleeding vessels and tissue. It's why for the first 48 hours, it is recommended that NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen) not be used.

    Physical Therapy

    • Doctors may prescribe a strengthening and stretching program after a hamstring injury. It will help rebuild the muscle, improve range of motion and help prevent re-injury.

    Ultrasound Therapy

    • Ultrasound therapy is used in many sports-related injuries, including hamstring ailments, to help provide short-term pain relief. This therapy uses high frequency sound waves to warm superficial soft tissue or accelerate the healing of tissue at the cellular level.

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