Hamstring tears, also known as strains or pulls, occur in the hamstring muscles of the back of the upper leg. According to Sports Injury Clinic, hamstring muscles are made up of three muscles: the semitendinosus, semimembranosous and biceps femoris. Rehabilitation procedures for hamstring tears depends on the severity of the injury.
Hamstring Tear Symptoms
Athletes, especially those in sports that require running, can quickly spot the symptoms of a hamstring injury. According to the Sports Injury Clinic, sudden or sharp pain is often felt while performing high velocity exercise such as running. Pain is often felt with any movement of the muscle and the pain usually gets worse when the muscle is straightened or contracted. According to the SIC, swelling and bruising is common and if the injury is severe enough, a gap may be felt in the muscle where the muscle was torn apart.
Grade One Rehab
Grade one tears are the least severe injury and are often known as strains or slight pulls. According to the Sports Injury Clinic, these injuries have little swelling and only slight pain when walking. The SIC recommends resting for one to two days from any activities which cause pain. After that period, gradually strengthening and stretching is used to restore range of motion and strength in an effort to prevent further injury.
Grade Two Rehab
Grade two hamstring tears are the middle injuries that are more severe than grade one, but not complete tears of the muscle like grade three injuries. In grade two injuries, your ability to walk will be affected and moving the muscle will cause pain. The SIC recommends resting grade two injuries for at least three days while applying ice and keeping the injured leg elevated. Avoid weight-bearing activities for at least one week during rehab and not fully returning to sports for two weeks minimum with a grade two tear.
Grade Three Rehab
Hamstring tears categorized as grade three are the most severe injuries and they can take months to heal. The Sports Injury Clinic notes that Grade three injuries come with severe pain, immediate swelling and may require the use of crutches to even be able to walk. Grade three injuries often need to be treated by an orthopedic surgeon or doctor to make sure there is no damage to surrounding bones and ligaments. Rest for at least one week and avoid weight-bearing activities for the first two weeks after the injury. Light weights can be added after two weeks, but returning to pre-injury activities is not recommended until at least one month has passed.
