Your hamstrings are a series of muscles that run down the length of the back of your upper leg, making them susceptible to sports and running injuries. Pulling or straining the hamstring is one of the easiest injuries to sustain, and may have you sidelined for several days or weeks.
Step 1
Stop whatever activity you were doing that caused the hamstring injury. Elevate your leg immediately until the pain subsides enough for you to move.
Step 2
Get to a spot where you can rest, such as at home. Don't put any excess pressure or strain on your hamstring.
Step 3
Apply ice to the affected area using an elastic bandage and an ice pack. If you don't have an ice pack, you can use a large sandwich bag filled with ice and wrapped in a wet towel. Apply the ice for only 20 minutes at a time.
Step 4
Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen, to reduce the swelling of the injured site. Read the directions on the label and take the appropriate amount with a large glass of water. (Do not take this without consulting your doctor if you're not sure if you're allergic.)
Step 5
Rest after any significant physical activity. Consult your doctor, who may advise you to use crutches in order to keep the weight off your injured leg.
Step 6
Keep your leg elevated as much as possible during your rest period. Use a pillow or a stack of towels or something similar to prop your leg up in order to reduce swelling.
Step 7
Consult your doctor to see if you should perform any specific physical therapy in order to heal your leg. Follow the physical therapy program strictly in order to get back on your feet in the shortest time possible.
Things You'll Need
- Ice
- Compression bandage
- Anti-inflammatory medication
