Sports Injuries : Sports Injuries: Stained Hamstring
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Hamstring Strain
What is a hamstring strain? - tear of the hamstring muscles
A hamstring strain or a pulled hamstring as it is sometimes called is a tear in one of the hamstrings muscles (Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus and Biceps femoris). It often results from an overload of the muscles or trying to move the muscles too fast. If you have taken an impact in the back of the leg it must be treated as a contusion. |
What is a hamstring injury?
The hamstring muscle is a group of large, powerful muscles that span the back of the thigh, from the lower pelvis to the back of the shin bone. The hamstring is the important muscle that functions to extend the hip joint and flex the knee joint.
The hamstring is used in many sporting activities, as well as normal daily activities. Sports that commonly cause a hamstring injury are sprinting sports that involve sudden accelerations. These include track and field, soccer, and basketball.
A hamstring injury can also occur as a result of a direct blow to the muscle, such as being kicked in the back of the thigh, or falling on the back of the thigh. Hamstring contusions are different from pulled hamstrings, although they may cause similar symptoms.
What is a pulled hamstring?
A pulled hamstring, also called a hamstring strain, is a tear of the hamstring muscle fibers.
In less severe hamstring strains, Grade I injuries, the tearing is microscopic. The muscle fibers are essentially stretched to far, and some bleeding occurs within the muscle. In very severe hamstring strains, severe Grade III injuries, the hamstring muscle can completely rupture, and may require surgery to repair the torn ends of the muscle.
Muscle strains and tears most commonly occur because of what is called an "eccentric contraction." When this occurs, the muscle is trying to contract while another force (the ground, another player, etc.) is forcing the muscle in the opposite direction. This creates tremendous force on the muscle, and if the force is strong enough, it will tear the muscle fibers.
How can I prevent hamstring strains?
Regular deep tissue sports massage can help prevent muscle strains by identifying tight knots and weak points in the muscle. Structure balance is important in preventing pre-stress of specific muscles.
Conditioning and strengthening the muscles not only the hamstring muscles but the lower back as well.
Ensure the lower back is working properly and has good mobility as pain and tension can be referred into the hamstring muscles, weakening them and making them prone to tearing.
