Hamstring Injury: What You Need to Know
What is the Hamstring? 🏃♂️
The hamstring is a group of muscles at the back of the thigh that help you move your hip and knee. It consists of:
- Semitendinosus
- Semimembranosus
- Biceps Femoris
These muscles are crucial for running, jumping, and everyday movements!
Symptoms of a Hamstring Strain ⚠️
A hamstring strain, or pulled hamstring, happens when these muscles are overstretched or torn. Symptoms include:
✅ Sudden sharp pain at the back of the leg, especially during sprinting
✅ Muscle spasms when stretching
✅ Swelling and bruising
✅ In severe cases, a noticeable gap in the muscle
Types of Hamstring Strains 🩹
Hamstring strains are classified into three grades based on severity:
Grade 1: Mild Strain 😌
- Tightness in the back of the thigh
- Some discomfort when walking
- Minimal swelling
Grade 2: Moderate Strain 😣
- Limping while walking
- Sharp pain during activity
- Swelling and bruising
- Pain when bending the knee against resistance
- Difficulty straightening the knee
- Soreness in the hamstring area
Grade 3: Severe Strain 😵
- Intense burning or stabbing pain
- Walking is extremely difficult (crutches may be needed)
- Severe pain when bending the knee
- Immediate swelling and bruising
First 48 Hours: What to Do? ⏳
The first 48 hours after injury are critical. Follow the RICE Protocol to speed up recovery:
🛑 Rest – Stop all activities that cause pain ❄️ Ice – Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours 🩹 Compression – Use a bandage to reduce swelling ⬆️ Elevation – Keep your leg elevated to reduce swelling
How Long Will It Take to Heal? ⏳
- Grade 1: About 3 weeks
- Grade 2: Around 4-6 weeks
- Grade 3: Up to 3 months
🔎 Need Help? For a personalized rehab program, contact myPhysioSA today!
📞 Call us on 1300 189 289 – We’re your trusted sports physiotherapists.
