Torn Hamstring

Your hamstrings are a group of three muscles on the back of the thigh which flex (bend) the knee and extend (straighted) the hip. They are injured mainly in sprinting or sudden stretching (for example, kicking a ball).

What is a torn hamstring?

The severity of the injury can vary from mild microscopic tears, (Grade 1), moderate muscles tears with more bruising (Grade 2) or, very rarely, a complete rupture (Grade 3).

How do I know if I've torn my hamstring?

• It hurts! A sudden sharp, often tearing feeling on the back of the thigh
• Pain on stretching the hamstring
• Pain on resisted knee flexion
• Bruising, swelling and tenderness
• You will feel a gap in the muscle in severe tears

What Can I do to help?

• Stop playing immediately
• Apply ice
• Compress the leg
• Elevate the leg
• Gently keep the knee and hip moving, using crutches or a stick if necessary
• See a physiotherapist

What can a physiotherapist do?

• Fully assess the problem to ensure that there aren't other problems too - often torn hamstrings accompany sciatic nerve problems
• Gentle massage to reduce the amount of scar tissue
• Ultrasound to improve the rate of healing
• Prescribe a graduated programme of rehabilitation exercises to prevent further injury.

If you want to enquire about Pilates or talk to Sara Gordon directly call or text 01737 824457 or email sara.gordon@physioandpilates.co.uk