Hamstring Tear Management with Dr. Catherine Logan

Treating hamstring partial tears/strains typically involves a combination of rest, rehabilitation exercises, and sometimes medical interventions. Here's a general overview of how hamstring tears are typically managed:

1. Rest: Immediately after the injury, it's important to rest the affected leg to allow the hamstring muscle to heal. Avoid activities that exacerbate pain or discomfort.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Use an ice pack or cold compress for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially during the first 48-72 hours after the injury.

3. Compression and Elevation: Consider using compression bandages or wraps to help reduce swelling and provide support to the injured muscle. Elevating the leg above heart level when resting can also aid in reducing swelling.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help alleviate pain and discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions provided on the medication packaging and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.

5. Physical Therapy: When ready, a structured physical therapy program is typically initiated. Physical therapy aims to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the hamstring muscle through targeted exercises and stretches. These may include:

   • Stretching: Gentle stretching exercises to improve flexibility and range of motion in the hamstring muscle.
   • Strengthening: Progressive strengthening exercises to rebuild the strength of the hamstring muscle and surrounding muscles, as well as the core muscles.
   • Balance and Stability Training: Exercises to improve balance, coordination, and stability to reduce the risk of future injuries.
   • Proprioceptive Training: Activities to enhance proprioception (awareness of body position and movement) and neuromuscular control.
   • Functional Exercises: Activities that mimic the movements and demands of daily activities or sports to facilitate a safe return to normal activities.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: As the hamstring muscle heals and strength improves, gradually reintroduce activities and exercises that involve the use of the hamstring muscle. Progression should be gradual and guided by a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of re-injury.

7. Biologic/Injection Interventions: In some cases, more severe hamstring tears may require medical interventions, including regenerative therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, and sometimes, surgery. These interventions are typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments have been unsuccessful, full-thickness tears or for athletes who require a faster recovery due to the demands of their sport.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physician or physical therapist, for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan tailored to the severity of the injury and individual needs.

Compliance with the prescribed treatment plan and rehabilitation program is crucial for optimal recovery from hamstring tears.

Author

Dr. Catherine Logan, MD, MBA Catherine Logan, MD, MBA, MSPT, is a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex knee and shoulder surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, Colorado. As a former physical therapist & trainer, Dr. Logan provides a distinct expertise in sports injury, prevention, and surgical management.