Hamstring
HAMSTRING
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Pain usually feels like a tightening sensation unless it is sharp from a recent trauma
- More you try to run the tighter it becomes
- Pain can be located in the any where throughout the length of the muscle
DEFINITION & ANATOMY
- Hamstring is made up of three (3) muscles. Biceps Femoris, Semimembranosus and semitendinosus
- They originate from the ischial tuberosity (butt bone) and travel posterior down the leg and split just above the knee. Biceps Femoris goes medially inserting into the fibula. The two semis go lateral attaching in the tibia
- The muscle helps extend the hip and flexes the knee joint
- The primary factor is an imbalance between the hamstring and quadriceps. The quadriceps become too strong and when they extend the knee or lower leg the hamstring muscles cannot control the contraction causing microscopic tears or stress on the muscles
- Hyperpronation of the foot, which causes excessive and repetitive medial rotation of the tibia, can lead to repetitive stress also affecting the hamstring
- Biomechanical abnormalities of the spine, pelvis and leg length can also contribute
TREATMENT CONSIDERATIONS
- Ice to reduce pain and control inflammation
- Stretching of the hamstrings is essential, but must include stretching of the quadriceps
- Injury usually takes place in an eccentric position so strengthening of the hamstring must include eccentric exercises
- Wearing appropriate shoes and stabilizing orthotics can be beneficial
- Get an analysis of your gait cycle (running and walking) from a biomechanical professional
