Hamstring Strain

Definition
– A hamstring strain is when the muscle is over stretched or torn. 

Grade 1 – Consist of small micro tears of the muscle
- Tight feel in the hamstring
- Able to walk properly
- Little to no swelling
- Little to no pain on contraction of muscle

Grade 2 – Consist of a partial tear of the muscle
- May get sudden twinges of pain during activity
- Remember a specific incidence during activity
- Mild to moderate swelling
- Unable to walk properly
- Contraction of muscle creates pain

Grade 3 – Consist of a severe tear or rupture of the muscle
- Severe pain
- Profuse bruising and swelling
- Unable to walk without the use of crutches
- Contraction of muscle is extremely painful, or impossible

Method Of Injury
– Hamstring strains most commonly occur with an overload of the muscle during an eccentric contraction. Eccentric contractions are when the muscle contracts while being put into a stretched position. Strains can also occur due to an explosive contraction of the muscle. This occurs often in sprinters, hurdlers and running sports. Incidence also increases with decreased flexibility and age of the athlete.

Treatment
– Initial treatment for any hamstring strain should follow the PIER principle (Pressure, Ice, Elevation, Rest). 
- Proper physiotherapy/athletic therapy should also be done for proper healing of the muscle to regain full range of motion
- Stretching and strengthening of the muscle when pain free

Recommended Products

UNIVERSAL COMPRESSION ICE WRAP - 6000 (6000)		THIGH WRAP - 106 (106)