We offer advice and treatment for hamstring injuries in Southend-on-Sea at The Body Matters. Treatments are available from our clinic based in Leigh-on-Sea, Southend, Essex. We also offer telephone & online support and remote consultations.
What are hamstrings?
The hamstrings are a group of three muscles that run down the back of the thigh from the sitting bones to down below the knee joint. They are responsible for flexing the knee and extending the hip and are also involved in stabilising the torso and pelvis when standing and moving the trunk.
What is a hamstring injury?
A hamstring injury is a strain or a tear to the tendons or large muscles on the back of the upper leg (the hamstring). There are 3 grades of hamstring injury:
- Grade 1 Hamstring Injury - A mild muscle strain or pull
- Grade 2 Hamstring Injury - A partial muscle tear
- Grade 3 Hamstring Injury - A complete muscle tear
How do hamstring injuries occur?
Hamstring injuries tend to occur more commonly in fast sports where there are lots of changes in direction, movements, and lunging, overstretching your muscles and tendons, and pulling one of your hamstring muscles. Factors such as inadequate warm-up, muscle weakness or imbalance, fatigue, and previous injury can increase the risk.
Are hamstring injuries common?
Hamstring injuries are the most common non-contact injury in football. Each season, on average 12% of premier league football players will suffer a hamstring injury which can range from a simple grade 1 tear, up to a grade three full rupture, which may require surgery.
The most common hamstring issue for many individuals seems to be at the origin of the muscle, attaching just under the buttock. This often means that there is tendinopathy, which can linger for a while if untreated.
What are the symptoms of a hamstring injury?
Symptoms of a hamstring injury include sudden sharp pain in the back of the thigh, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty walking or straightening the leg. These symptoms may vary in intensity depending on the severity of the injury and can impact daily activities and sports participation.
How long does it take to recover from a hamstring injury?
Recovery time for a hamstring injury varies based on severity. Minor strains may heal within a few weeks with rest and therapy, while severe tears can take several months. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and function, guided by professionals to prevent re-injury and ensure a safe return to activity.
Are there any complications associated with hamstring injuries?
Complications can arise from hamstring injuries if not properly treated and rehabilitated. These may include chronic pain, muscle weakness, and recurrent injuries. Inadequate healing can lead to scar tissue formation, affecting muscle function and potentially impacting performance and daily activities.
When is it safe to return to sports after a hamstring injury?
Returning to sports after a hamstring injury depends on individual factors and injury severity. Athletes should be symptom-free, have a full range of motion and strength, and gradually resume activity, which helps minimise the risk of re-injury and ensures safe participation.
What should I do if I suffer a hamstring injury?
The best thing to do if you are experiencing hamstring issues or if you have suffered a hamstring injury, get in touch with us as soon as possible in order to prevent any long-term damage.
Read our blog here or here for more advice, or get in touch with the team at The Body Matters and we can find the right person to help you.
Remote Consultations Available
We continue to use remote consultations to provide our services without physical interaction, if required, by shifting some appointments to video consultations.
Read our Remote Consultations page for more information.
Call 01702 714968 for more information about treatment for hamstring injuries in Southend-on-Sea & Leigh-on-Sea Essex at The Body Matters.
