Hamstring injuries can be very painful. The hamstrings are the muscles that are located on the back of the thigh. They are most commonly used in activities such as walking, running and jumping. When the hamstrings are overstretched, they can strain, causing tears in the muscle.
Function
The hamstrings are a group of three muscles and surrounding tissues that make up the back of the upper leg. This muscle group works by pulling the leg back while bending the knee. During activity, it is this action that moves the body forward. Often, injuries happen when the muscles in the front of the upper leg, or quadriceps, are stronger than the hamstrings. This can cause improper movements of the leg muscles and joints, resulting in injury. Poor hamstring or lower back flexibility is also a contributing factor to the causes of hamstring injuries.
Process
Only a physician can diagnose a hamstring injury. Your physician will ask you detailed questions about your activity level. They may include questions about your exercise program, including how much weight you lift with your legs, the length of your warm up and stretches you perform. He will also need to know when the discomfort began, and if you feel pain as well as a pulling sensation in the back of the leg. Your physician may prescribe X-rays and/or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). He will determine whether your injury is mild, moderate or severe, and will help guide you to the appropriate form of treatment.
Effects
Seek medical attention for most hamstring strains. However, if you feel that your injury is minor, there are some steps you can take to treat the injury at home. Rest the injury. This may mean spending your days sitting or laying on the couch, or using crutches to get around. If you continue activity on an injured body part, you are at risk of damaging the muscles and surrounding tissues even further. Apply ice to the injury for 20 minutes and wait 30 to 45 minutes before applying ice a second time. Ice controls the swelling by reducing blood flow to the area and helps to relieve pain. Elevate the leg while icing. Apply compression with a wrap or an ace bandage. Compression helps to limit bleeding at the injury site, and also helps to relieve pain. Gently stretch the hamstrings while seated or standing. Stretching increases flexibility of the hamstrings which may be helpful in preventing further injury.
Physical Therapy
If the pain does not dissipate with rest, your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Many physicians suggest you attend therapy sessions three times a week for four weeks. These sessions usually consist of strengthening exercises, stretching (which may be assisted by the physical therapist) and cold (ice) therapy. Sometimes, physical therapists use a form of electrical stimulation by placing electrodes that send out a mild current to the injured area. This process increases circulation to the area, which can speed the healing process.
Prevention
To prevent future injuries, make sure that you have a balanced strength training routine that not only strengthens the quadriceps, but also challenges the hamstrings. Have a proper warm up and cool down segment of your program. The most common exercise to strengthen the hamstrings is the prone leg curl. This is performed on a piece gym equipment while lying on your stomach and curling the legs up and towards the body. A certified personal trainer can teach you more exercises for the hamstrings. Consult your doctor before beginning any strength program following an injury.
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