Hamstring Muscle Injuries

The hamstring muscle group is made up of three muscles located at the back of the thigh. They function to flex the knee and extend the hip. As the hamstrings are used daily and physical activities they are prone to injuries such as strains and contusions.

A muscle strain, also called a “pull”, occurs when the muscle fibers tear. With the hamstring muscles this typically occurs because of a sudden acceleration, or an excessive stretch.

A contusion, or bruise, can also happen to the hamstring muscles as a result of a direct blow or falling on the back of the thigh.

Symptoms of a hamstring strain or contusion are similar and include:

• Bruising

• Swelling

• Spasm

• Pain while stretching the muscle

• Difficulty contracting the muscle

Treatment of a hamstring strain depends on the severity of the injury. Physical therapy treatment options commonly include:

• Management of swelling and pain through rest, ice, compression and elevation

• Strengthening

• Special stretching techniques

• Massage

At Imperial Pain Specialists , proper treatment begins with the proper diagnosis. When you come to our offices, you will get a thorough evaluation and examination by one of our many excellent medical professionals on staff. Depending on the findings, you may be required to get additional diagnostic work ups such as MRI’s, X-Rays and even Doppler Studies.

The hamstring is a group of muscles located on the back of the thigh that help extend the hip joint and flex the knee. As it is commonly used during physical and daily activities, the hamstring is prone to injuries such as a contusion or muscle strain. When these injuries occur, patients may experience bruising, swelling, muscle spasms and difficulty contracting the muscle.

Treatment for a hamstring injury depends on the severity of the condition, but may include rest, using crutches, icing the area, physical therapy and massage therapy.