Hamstring Injuries

Hamstring injuries are common and can affect anyone, from athletes to people who simply take a wrong step, and they can involve a long course of rehab. Our orthopaedic surgeons are here to help you through your diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Hamstring Injuries

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Introduction

The hamstrings are a group of muscles along the back of the thigh that help you bend your knee and move your hip. When these muscles are stretched too far or placed under sudden stress, they can become strained or torn. Understanding the signs and treatment options can help you heal properly and avoid future injury.

How Do Hamstring Injuries Happen?

Hamstring injuries often occur during activities that require quick bursts of movement, such as sprinting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. They can also happen from overstretching, slipping, or having tight or weak muscles that aren’t prepared for rapid motion. Fatigue, poor warm-up routines, and muscle imbalance increase the likelihood of injury.

How Do I Know if I Have a Hamstring Tear?

You may have a hamstring strain or tear if you experience:

A sudden, sharp pain in the back of the thigh
Swelling or bruising that develops over hours or days
Difficulty walking, bending the knee, or straightening the leg
Weakness in the leg after the injury
A popping or snapping sensation at the time of injury (more common in severe tears)

If pain is severe or you have trouble putting weight on the leg, it’s important to be evaluated by a medical professional.

Treatments for Hamstring Injuries

Most hamstring injuries are treated without surgery. Common approaches include:

Rest and modified activity to protect the muscle
Ice and compression to reduce swelling and discomfort
Anti-inflammatory medications as recommended by your provider
Physical therapy to improve flexibility, rebuild strength, and restore normal movement
Gradual return to activity, guided by a specialist to prevent re-injury

Healing time varies depending on each patient’s biology and the severity of the injury.

Surgical Repair

Surgery is usually reserved for the most severe hamstring tears, especially when the muscle has pulled away from the bone or when multiple tendons are involved. Surgical repair reattaches the torn tendons, restoring stability and strength to the leg. Recovery involves a structured rehabilitation program to ensure safe healing and return to activity.

Individualized Care for Orthopaedic Sports Injuries

Every hamstring injury is different, and recovery should be tailored to your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. Our orthopedic sports medicine team at Premier Podiatry and Orthopedics offers personalized evaluations and treatment plans to help you heal safely and confidently. Whether you’re returning to your sport or want to move without pain, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of your recovery.

References

Allahabadi S, Salazar LM, Obioha OA, et al. Hamstring Injuries: A Current Concepts Review: Evaluation, Nonoperative Treatment, and Surgical Decision Making. Am J Sports Med. 2024;52(3):832-844. doi:10.1177/03635465231164931.

Chang JS, Kayani B, Plastow R, et al. Management of Hamstring Injuries: Current Concepts Review. Bone Joint J. 2020;102-B(10):1281-1288. doi:10.1302/0301-620X.102B10.BJJ-2020-1210.R1.

Arner JW, Rothrauff B, Bradley JP. Hamstring Injuries in Athletes: Anatomy, Pathology, and Treatment. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2025;33(13):e703-e714. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-24-01162.