HAMSTRING STRAIN & PAIN

Pain located in the back of the leg typically indicates a hamstring that is either strained (pulled) or about to be! This injury is caused from various reasons such as overuse and excessive pressure on the area.

Hamstring strains most commonly occur at the beginning of a season when the body is still getting used to the increased activity level. A typical hamstring strain has the following signs and symptoms.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS:

• A tightness feeling. Often times, the more your try to stretch it, the tighter it will feel.

• Pain with movement, especially as the speed of the activity increases.

• Pain walking, running, etc.

• Discoloration will typically only be present with a sever strain.

TREATMENT:

• Initial treatment should involve the practice of P.R.I.C.E.:

  • Protection: If you can't walk normally, use crutches until you can.

  • Rest: Do not use the area in any painful way.

  • Ice: Place crushed ice on the area for 20 minutes at a time, waiting a minimum of 60 minutes between applications. If you use a refreezable commercial ice pack, place a barrier between your skin and the pack.

  • Compression: Wrap the area with an elastic bandage to try and limit any swelling and support the area.

  • Elevation: Try to place the injured area at the level of your heart or higher when you can to limit swelling.

• As pain starts to decrease, gradually start working to increase the movement and strength, letting pain be your guide.

• Returning the area to a pre-injured state is extremely important to prevent recurring problems and from it happening again. You can start on the initial exercises provided below