The hamstrings are a group of muscles at the back of the thigh that provide the strength that bends the knee and are important in activities such as walking and running.
What sort of injuries can occur?
The upper part of the hamstrings are particularly prone to injury. Injury may occur suddenly (sometimes called “acute” injuries) or symptoms may come on gradually over time. Sudden injuries are commonly tears within the muscle or avulsions (where the muscle is pulled off the bone). Gradual onset symptoms are more commonly due to tendinopathy, essentially strain on the attachment of the muscles to the pelvic bone.
What are the symptoms?
Acute injuries present with sudden pain around the buttock and back of the thigh. It can be difficult to walk and bear weight through the leg for a few days. Bruising can show up in the back of the thigh and spread down the leg. Tendinopathy presents with pain in the buttock and back of the thigh on exercise, it can also be uncomfortable to sit.
How are injuries diagnosed?
Careful clinical assessment is required to make the diagnosis of hamstring injuries. Imaging studies, in particular MRI can be useful to assess the degree of injury.
How are adductor injuries treated?
Most hamstring injuries can be treated non-operatively with rest, ice, analgesia and physiotherapy. Surgery can be required for significant avulsion injuries and prompt clinical assessment is required as outcomes are best if surgery is performed within the first 6 weeks after injury. Injections or surgery can sometimes be required for more minor avulsion injuries or tendinopathy that fail to improve with non-operative treatment.