Whether you are a runner, dancer, football player or soccer player, chances are you may experience a hamstring injury. A hamstring pull or strain is one of the most common injuries among athletes and often reoccurs, reports the University of Wisconsin Department of Sports Rehab. The term "strain" refers to a stretched or torn muscle or tendon. Tendons are tissues that connect your muscles to your bones. When twisting or pulling occurs, these tissues can experience a strain.
Hamstring Basics
Your hamstring is made up of four muscles. These muscles in the back of your thigh can be felt stretching if your reach forward to touch your toes. Three of these muscles are known as "true" hamstring muscles. They begin at your hip joint and knee joint while a forth muscle attaches only to your knee joint.
Hamstring Injuries
The two main types of hamstring injury affect different parts of the hamstring. The first type of injury is common in younger runners. It is caused by a sudden motion such as an explosive sprint. In this case, the strain occurs at the muscular portion of your hamstring, and you feel pain in the middle of the back of your thigh. The second type of injury is caused by errors in training. In this case, the strain occurs at the point where your hamstring inserts at the ischial tubrosity of your pelvis. This type of injury may cause pain in your lower buttock that increases in severity when the foot of your injured leg strikes the ground.
Training for Runners
Your initial training phase should begin with developing a good aerobic base. You can do this by running at a comfortable pace. Working up to faster runs can reduce your risk of developing a hamstring injury. By progressing your runs, your body will be able to function at faster speeds before muscle fatigue or muscle failure occur.
Treatment
The initial treatment of a hamstring injury often involves icing the area and resting. You may also chose to take over-the counter-pain medications to help manage the pain. In some cases, physical therapy or deep-tissue procedures may be used to promote movement in your hamstrings and surrounding muscles. As with any injury, consult your doctor.
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