Hamstring Strain
A hamstring strain is one of the most common sporting injuries, occurring when the muscles at the back of the thigh are overstretched or torn. It is frequently seen in sprinting, kicking, and change-of-direction sports. Correct rehabilitation is essential, as hamstring injuries have a high rate of re-injury if return to sport is rushed.
Understanding the Injury
The hamstrings are a group of three muscles that bend the knee and extend the hip. Strains usually occur during high-speed running or sudden lengthening of the muscle.
Grading
- Grade 1: Mild overstretch with minimal fibre damage
- Grade 2: Partial tear with noticeable pain and weakness
- Grade 3: Complete or near-complete tear
Signs and Symptoms
- Sudden sharp pain at the back of the thigh
- A pulling or “popping” sensation during sprinting
- Tenderness and swelling
- Bruising (with higher-grade injuries)
- Weakness and difficulty running or accelerating
Causes and Risk Factors
- Sprinting and rapid acceleration
- Inadequate warm-up
- Muscle fatigue
- Previous hamstring injury
- Reduced strength or flexibility
- Poor running mechanics
Assessment
Our sports physiotherapists complete a thorough evaluation:
- Injury history: Mechanism and timing
- Palpation: Locating the site and severity
- Strength and length testing: Grading the injury
- Functional testing: Assessing running and movement
- Imaging referral: When required for higher-grade injuries
Physiotherapy Treatment
Early Phase
- Protecting the muscle and managing pain and swelling
- Gentle, pain-free range of motion
- Early loading to promote healing
Strengthening Phase
- Progressive eccentric strengthening (e.g. Nordic exercises)
- Hip and core stability work
- Restoring full strength through range
Return to Running and Sport
- Graded running program
- Sprint and acceleration mechanics
- Sport-specific drills
- Objective return-to-sport testing to reduce re-injury risk
Expected Outcomes
With structured rehabilitation, most athletes return to full sport with restored strength and a significantly reduced risk of re-injury. Completing the full program — not just waiting for pain to settle — is the key to a lasting recovery.
