The hamstrings, located in the back top of the thigh, consist of three large muscles. Hamstring muscles help you move in a variety of directions. They allow the knee to bend and help you walk, run and jump. The hamstring muscles can become tight and overworked, leading to injury. One such injury is a strain. A third-degree strain is the most severe and occurs when there is a complete tear in the muscle. If you have this injury, you will experience specific symptoms.
Visible Symptoms
The Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma says third-degree strains are rare. A third-degree strain is identifiable by widespread bruising. In addition, the muscle may ball up. This lump will be visible, and you can easily feel it with your hand. You may also experience symptoms typical to a first- or second-degree strain.
Pain
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says that when the hamstring muscle is strained, you may feel a sharp pain in the back of the thigh that stops you from moving or causes you to hop or limp. In some cases, there may be a popping sensation at the time the injury occurs. The pain with a third-degree strain tends to be intense and may feel like a burning sensation. You may also experience swelling in the back top of the thigh.
Weakness
According to the Mount Sinai Medical Center, the injured area may become stiff. Your affected leg will be weak, and you may need crutches to walk. You may be unable to bend or straighten your leg. A third-degree strain can take more then three months to heal. If the strain is severe enough, you may need surgery.
