The hamstring muscle is actually a group of large, powerful muscles that span the back of the thigh, from the lower pelvis to the back of the shin bone, specifically the semimembranosus, semitendinosus and biceps femoris. It is the muscle group that works to extend the hip joint and flex the knee joint. Hamstring injuries are often seen by athletes running in “full stride” or a result of a direct blow to the muscle, such as being kicked in the back of the thigh, or falling on the back of the thigh. A “tight” hamstring is found in those who sit a lot or do not stretch regularly.
Hamstring injuries are classified in 3 categories:
- Grade 1 – mild strain with few muscle fibers being torn.
- Grade 2 – moderate strain with a definite loss in strength.
- Grade 3 – complete tear of the hamstrings.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Hamstring sprain or strain
- Hamstring rupture
Symptoms:
- Sudden sharp pain in the back of the thigh, usually in full stride
- Onset of pain at the beginning or near the end of sports activities
- If the tendon ruptures, may be unable to stand or walk
- Tight hamstrings can contribute to, and/or be mistaken for low back pain
Signs to look for:
- Onset of pain or weakness during an explosive movement, such as sprinting
- May be an audible pop at the time of injury
- Pain with sitting or while walking uphill or up stairs
- Swelling and redness accompany the more severe injuries
Possible Causes:
- Muscle fatigue while involved in strenuous exercises that demand hamstring use
- Inadequate warm-up and stretching
- Lack of lower back flexibility
- Abnormal biomechanics, such as an anterior pelvic tilt
- Acute injury
Goals:
- Heal from acute injury
- Restore flexibility and strength to leg and lower back muscles
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotic exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Do not wear pumps or heels until – and only if – condition is healed and then only on a restricted basis
Activities:
- Medical care and the RICE. regimen – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation as appropriate
- Reduction of activity until symptoms abate and shoes and arch supports in place
- Alternate weight bearing exercising (running, walking) with non-weight bearing activities such as swimming and bicycling
- Regular stretching of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon and arch structure
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Strengthcats.com Text: Orthopedics.about.com, rice.edu, Orthoinfo. aaos.org, emedicine.com