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Hamstring strains in athletes: diagnosis and treatment
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.
Summary
Hamstring strains, common in athletes, require careful management including rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Early mobilization and progressive exercises are key to recovery and preventing reinjury.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Hamstring strains are frequent athletic injuries, often recurring.
- Understanding hamstring muscle function during gait is crucial for injury prevention and rehabilitation.
- Muscle injuries occur at the myotendinous junction, a high-force concentration area.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the functional roles of hamstring muscles during the gait cycle.
- To describe the physiological healing process following hamstring strains.
- To outline optimal rehabilitation strategies and return-to-competition criteria for hamstring injuries.
Main Methods:
- Electromyography and gait analysis were used to determine hamstring muscle activity timing.
- The study reviews the inflammatory and regenerative processes involved in muscle healing.
- Rehabilitation protocols involving immobilization, mobilization, stretching, and strengthening exercises are discussed.
Main Results:
- Hamstring muscles support the knee in early stance, aid propulsion in late stance, and control leg momentum during midswing.
- Healing involves inflammation, edema, and hemorrhage, followed by rapid strength regain if reinjury is avoided.
- Isokinetic testing is proposed to assess readiness for return to play, focusing on strength ratios and limb symmetry.
Conclusions:
- A balanced approach to inflammation management is necessary for optimal muscle healing.
- Early mobilization and progressive, pain-free exercises are vital for restoring function and preventing fibrosis.
- Surgery is indicated only for complete ruptures with significant displacement or defects.