Hamstring strain

Signs or symptoms:

A hamstring strain is a tear in one or more of the hamstrings muscles (semimembranosis, semitentinosus, and biceps femoris). It often is the result from overloading the muscle and or moving it too fast.

* sharp pain at the back of the leg

* muscle spasm and or cramp

* swelling and or bruise

* pain with stretching the muscle

* pain on muscle contraction

* complete tear you will feel a gap in the muscle

Grade I

* tightness in back of thigh

* able to walk normally, however you are aware of discomfort

* minimal swelling

Grade II

* may limp

* with activity may notice sudden twinge of pain

* may have swelling

* moderate pain

* might not be able to fully straighten the knee

Grade III

* walking severely affected may need crutches

* severe pain

* noticeable swelling

Treatment in the first 48 hours are crucial!

1. Rest, Cold therapy, Compress, Elevate

2 Compression bandage to minimize intra muscular bleeding

3. Early mobilization.. Movement Stretch and Strengthen throughout pain free range of motion. This will aid in decreasing the swelling

See a Sports Injury Specialist

What a Sport Injury Specialist will do for you:

1. Myofascial release (Active Release Technique or Graston) - speed up recovery and break down the new collagen network allowing the correct fibers to repair and rebuild correctly.

2. Ultrasound and Electrical stimulation to help aid the repair and rebuild process of new collagen

3. See a physical therapist for rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and stretch the new tissue

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