Physio for Hamstring Injuries

Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries treated by physiotherapists. Anyone can experience a hamstring injury, but people who play sports such as AFL, rugby and soccer are most at risk. Our hamstrings are used on a daily basis for activities such as walking, running and jumping. A hamstring injury occurs when a tendon or muscle at the back of the thigh is strained or torn, resulting in pain, tenderness, swelling and bruising. In this blog post, Orthosports Physio will be sharing some insight into hamstring injuries.

Risk factors for Hamstring Injury

As every sports person knows, it can take some time to warm up to your training routine after a long break. Going too hard, too fast often results in old niggles returning and new injuries occurring. It is important to ease into your routine so that your body has plenty of time to recover and adapt to new demands. 

Those most at risk of experiencing a hamstring injury include:

• People who have had a previous hamstring injury

• Those who do not perform an adequate warm up routine

• People with muscle imbalances

• Those with poor flexibility

I’ve injured my hamstring – What should I do? 

If you have recently suffered a hamstring injury, it is important to schedule an appointment with Orthosports Physio at your earliest convenience. Our physiotherapists will carry out an assessment, after which a treatment and exercise program will be formulated to help manage your symptoms and improve your mobility and function. 

Hamstring injury treatment typically involves the following:

• Soft tissue massage

• Stretching

• Range of movement progression

• Exercises designed to build strength and address deficits

• Exercises which will support your return to sport/normal routine

Your progress will be monitored over the coming weeks, with loading exercises modified to ensure you are safely building resilience and strength in your hamstrings and surrounding muscles. 

Most people with partial tears will heal within 4-8 weeks, whilst complete tears may take up to 3 months to heal. 

Tips for Preventing Hamstring Injury

Whilst stretching was once thought to play an important role in reducing the risk of muscle injury, not all experts agree. It is recommended that you perform a warm-up prior to commencing your training routine, as this will prepare your hamstring and other muscles for sport and reduce your risk of injury. Vary your exercise routines; with the goal of improving the strength and durability of your hamstrings, along with the strength and mobility of your lower back and hips. Your physio will be happy to provide a list of appropriate exercises.

Have You Experienced a Hamstring Injury? Contact Orthosports Physio Today

If you have injured your hamstring, it is important to seek a professional assessment and treatment plan as early as possible. The team at Orthosports Physio have extensive experience in treating hamstring injuries. In following the treatment plan, you will notice your pain begin to subside, along with an improvement in movement and function. Upon recovery you will be able to return to sport safely and with confidence. 

Call now on 9744 2201 to book an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon.