Hamstring strain
An acute tear of the hamstring muscles, common in sprinting sports.
Overview
A hamstring strain is an acute muscle tear at the back of the thigh, common during sprinting or sudden acceleration. Graded rehabilitation and a structured return-to-sport plan reduce the high risk of recurrence.
Symptoms
- Sudden sharp pain at the back of the thigh
- Pain with sprinting or stretching the hamstring
- Bruising and swelling in larger tears
- Weakness in knee bending
Causes
- Sprinting and sudden acceleration
- Fatigue and inadequate warm-up
- Previous hamstring injury
Treatment
- Early protection and pain management
- Progressive strengthening including lengthened-position work
- Running and sprint reintroduction
- Criteria-based return to sport