Hamstring tears -- also called a pulled or strained hamstring -- are challenging for both athletes and rehabilitation professionals due to their high rate of recurrence. Nearly one-third of hamstring tears recur within the first year, according to a study published in the February 2010 issue of the "Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy." If you experience a hamstring tear, subsequent tears are often more severe than the original. You can minimize your risk of reinjury by using appropriate rehab therapies.
Hamstring Tears
A hamstring tear can occur in any of your three hamstring muscles as a result of muscle overload. They are common in sports that involve sprinting and are characterized by a sudden sharp pain in the back of your leg. Hamstring tears are categorized from grades one to three. Grade one is a minor tear in the muscle, grade two is a partial tear in the muscle and a grade three is a severe tear in the muscle. In some cases a grade three tear involves a complete tear in the muscle and may require surgery. However, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, most hamstring tears heal well using nonsurgical treatment.
R.I.C.E.
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends the R.I.C.E. protocol for most sporting injuries, including hamstring tears. Specifically, rest, ice, compression and elevation reduce pain and swelling after a hamstring tear. Doctors typically recommend that you rest your hamstring by taking a break from sports and vigorous physical activity; ice your hamstring several times daily for 20 minutes at a time; use a compression bandage around your hamstring and elevate your leg so that it is higher then your heart. Elevating your leg can be done by placing two or three pillows under your foot when resting.
Physical Therapy
Immediately following your injury, physical therapy involves balancing exercises and stepping drills. These exercises are done through a limited range of motion to prevent further injury. Once you are able to walk in a full stride, jog without pain and contract your muscles against resistance, you can begin to exercise with increased speed and intensity to restore range of motion and strength. If you participate in sports, sports-specific drills and techniques are added into the mix, once you have full strength in your hamstring. Before returning to sports or reintroducing vigorous physical activity and exercise, consult your doctor or rehabilitation therapist to determine if it is safe.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is an important part of rehabilitating your hamstring tear. As your hamstring tear heals, your body produces scar tissue that can limit the movement of adjacent tissues. Massage techniques can help to minimize scar tissue and increase blood flow to the area.
References
- "Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy;" Hamstring Strain Injuries: Recommendations for Diagnosis, Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention; Bryan C. Heiderscheit et al.; February 2010
- Sports Injury Clinic: Pulled Hamstring/Hamstring Strain
- American Academy of Orthpaedic Surgeons; Hamstring Muscle Injuries; July 2009
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