From time to time, a skeletal muscle in the body can cramp. This cramping is an involuntary contraction of the muscle fibers that do not relax. Muscles most likely to cramp are ones that stretch over two joints, such as the hamstring along the back of the thigh. Individuals at risk for experiencing a hamstring cramp include those who are overweight, dehydrated, performing strenuous physical activity and older than 45. Hamstring cramps will normally go away without treatment, but some treatments can help relieve the tight muscle and relieve the pain.
Step 1
Stop all activity that caused the hamstring cramp to occur, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Relieve the stress on the affected leg and allow it to rest. Elevate the leg while resting.
Step 2
Stretch the hamstring by extending the leg and placing it on an object waist high. Bend at the waist to lean forward and stretch the muscle in the back of the thigh. An additional way to stretch the hamstring includes lying on your back and placing the hands on the back of the affected thigh while pulling the leg straight up into the air at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Hold the stretch until the cramp stops.
Step 3
Massage the cramped leg. Rubbing the cramped hamstring muscle can help it relax.
Step 4
Ice the affected hamstring muscle for 15 minutes, at least four times each day for a few days after the cramp, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 5
Alternate heat therapy with the ice therapy. Ways to apply heat to the injured hamstring include taking a hot bath and using a heating pad.
Step 6
Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help relieve pain and inflammation of the hamstring cramp.
Step 7
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and decrease the severity and frequency of hamstring cramps.
Step 8
Contact a physician for a painful cramp that does not resolve with home treatments. Medical conditions, medications and injuries may cause muscle cramping.
