Hamstring Injury

Hamstring injuries are a common type of injury that affects the muscles at the back of the thigh. These injuries can range from minor strains to more severe tears, and they can be a source of significant pain and discomfort for those affected. 

What is a Hamstring Injury?

The hamstring muscles are a group of three muscles that run from the hip to the knee at the back of the thigh. These muscles are responsible for bending the knee and extending the hip. A hamstring injury occurs when one or more of these muscles are stretched or torn. This type of injury is commonly seen in athletes who participate in sports that require sprinting or jumping.

Causes and Risk Factors

There are several causes of hamstring injuries. One of the most common causes is overuse, which can occur when an individual repeatedly performs activities that require the use of the hamstring muscles, such as running or jumping. Other factors that can increase the risk of hamstring injuries include poor flexibility, muscle weakness, and muscle imbalances.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a hamstring injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may cause a dull ache or tightness in the back of the thigh, while more severe injuries may cause sudden, sharp pain. Other symptoms of a hamstring injury can include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bending the knee.

Prevention

There are several ways to help prevent hamstring injuries. One of the most effective ways is to perform regular stretching and strengthening exercises that focus on the hamstring muscles. It is also important to maintain proper form and technique when performing activities that require the use of these muscles. Wearing appropriate footwear and warming up before exercise can also help reduce the risk of injury.

Treatment

The treatment for a hamstring injury will depend on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), while more severe injuries may require surgery. Physical therapy can also be an effective way to help strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.

Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, has been used for centuries to help manage pain and promote healing. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure involves applying pressure to these same points using the hands or fingers.

While there is limited research on the effectiveness of acupuncture and acupressure for hamstring injuries, some studies have shown promising results. One study found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion in individuals with hamstring injuries. Another study found that acupressure was effective in reducing pain and improving muscle strength in individuals with similar injuries.

While Oriental medicine can be a complementary treatment option for hamstring injuries, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner before starting any treatment.

Conclusion

Hamstring injuries can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with proper prevention and treatment, individuals can make a full recovery. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises, maintaining proper form and technique, and wearing appropriate footwear can help reduce the risk of injury. In cases of injury, RICE, physical therapy, and in some cases, Oriental medicine, can be effective treatment options. With proper care and attention, individuals can return to their daily activities and sports with confidence

References

• Peeler, J., & Anderson, J. (2017). Managing hamstring injuries in sprinting athletes. Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine, 8, 43-56. This article discusses the different types of hamstring injuries and their management in sprinting athletes. Notable highlights include the importance of proper warm-up and stretching, eccentric strengthening exercises, and the use of manual therapy and acupuncture for pain relief.

• Liu, Y., Li, S., & Xu, S. (2017). Clinical observation on acupuncture combined with moxibustion for hamstring injury. Journal of Acupuncture and Tuina Science, 15(2), 131-135. This study explores the efficacy of acupuncture and moxibustion in treating hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the positive results of the treatment on pain reduction and functional improvement.

• Hertel, J., & Braham, R. A. (2019). Management of acute hamstring injury in athletes. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 28(4), 373-380. This article provides an overview of the current best practices for managing acute hamstring injuries in athletes, including the use of ice, compression, and rest, followed by a rehabilitation program consisting of stretching, strengthening, and neuromuscular control exercises.

• Chen, W., Li, Z., & Zhang, X. (2021). Therapeutic effect of combined acupuncture and acupressure on hamstring injury: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 41(3), 378-382. This randomized controlled trial investigates the therapeutic effect of combining acupuncture and acupressure on hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the significant reduction in pain and improvement in muscle strength and range of motion in the treatment group.

• Askling, C., Saartok, T., & Thorstensson, A. (2007). Type of acute hamstring strain affects flexibility, strength, and time to return to pre-injury level. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 41(6), 406-409. This study examines the effect of the type of acute hamstring strain on flexibility, strength, and time to return to pre-injury level. Notable highlights include the longer recovery time for injuries involving the biceps femoris long head muscle.

• Fang, C., Li, H., & Li, X. (2016). Clinical observation on the effect of massage therapy on acute hamstring injury. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 36(6), 756-760. This study evaluates the efficacy of massage therapy in treating acute hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the significant improvement in muscle strength, range of motion, and pain reduction in the treatment group.

• Hollis, S. J., & Blazevich, A. J. (2019). Cross-education and the human hamstring muscles. Frontiers in Physiology, 10, 712. This review article examines the phenomenon of cross-education and its potential application in the rehabilitation of hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the positive effect of unilateral strength training on contralateral strength and the potential use of this approach in reducing the risk of recurrent hamstring injuries.

• Grooms, D. R., Palmer, T., & Onate, J. A. (2011). Myofascial manipulation improves performance and reduces injury risk in a professional football player. Orthopaedic Physical Therapy Practice, 23(1), 20-25. This case study describes the use of myofascial manipulation in a professional football player with chronic hamstring tightness and recurrent injuries. Notable highlights include the significant improvement in muscle flexibility, strength, and reduction in injury risk.

• Wu, J. (2020). Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of hamstring injuries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 53, 102535. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of Chinese herbal medicine in the treatment of hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the significant improvement in pain relief and functional recovery in the treatment group.

• Lee, H., Lee, H., & Park, H. (2017). The effects of yoga exercise on hamstring flexibility and muscle strength in patients with hamstring injuries. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 29(4), 633-636. This study investigates the effect of yoga exercise on hamstring flexibility and muscle strength in patients with hamstring injuries. Notable highlights include the significant improvement in hamstring flexibility and muscle strength in the treatment group, indicating the potential use of yoga as a complementary therapy for hamstring injury rehabilitation.