Hamstring Injury


The hamstring consists of a group of three muscles; the Biceps Femoris, the Semitendinosus, and the Semimembranosus all of which run along the back of the leg just above the knee. These muscles are vital to the proper function of the knee and leg and can affect a person's ability to walk, run, kick, and perform other physical activities at full strength. One of the most important jobs of the hamstring is knee flexion, but the hamstring also helps the upper body distribute its weight evenly over the lower body so people don't fall or stumble when they try to walk or run.

Hamstring injuries are rated on a scale from one to three. Grade 1 injuries represent the most minor kinds of hamstring injuries, like cramps and strains, while grade 3 injuries represent much more serious muscle tears. A strong recovery is possible after a grade 3 hamstring injury, but most require months of rehabilitation. Athletes must be especially careful to properly maintain the hamstring, even during the off season, as an injury to the hamstring can have a massive negative impact on all levels of sporting careers.

To prevent hamstring injuries, be sure to stretch properly before any type of strenuous activity. Muscles that are tight are more susceptible to injuries, but a good stretching program can keep muscles loose and athletes moving strong. While stretching, care must be taken not to over stretch. Over stretching before a physical activity can fatigue the muscles, making them sore and tired before they're actually needed. Most experts agree that a good stretching routine and warm-up before the intended physical activity is key in injury prevention.

Performing routine strength exercises that target the hamstring will build the muscles and allow them to perform with increased strength and power. Stretch routines and strength exercises during the off season will keep the muscle powerful during periods of decreased activity, reducing the risk of injury when activity is reinitiated. It's important to be in shape to play your sport instead of playing a sport to get in shape. Strength exercises that specifically target the hamstring include cable kickbacks, hamstring curls using a stability ball, and dead lifts. A sports or physical fitness trainer can explain how to properly accomplish any of these exercises and might be able to recommend a few more. It's always a good idea to be shown how to perform exercises by an experienced trainer because improperly performing exercises can cause more injuries than they prevent.

Treatment of minor hamstring injuries generally includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the area. Serious hamstring injuries should be treated by a physician and may require surgery, medication, and/or months of rehabilitation as part of a prescribed treatment program.

Maintaining good hamstring health is important for the prevention of hamstring injuries, but it's also important to maintain the hamstring after an injury, in order to prevent future injuries and discomfort. Repeated hamstring injuries increase the risk of permanent hamstring damage, so extra caution should be taken by individuals who are recovering or who have already recovered from an injury as to not to re-injure the area.

Hamstring Injury Symptoms