Hamstrings Tear

What are the Hamstring Muscles?

The hamstring muscle is made up of 3 different muscles namely the Semi-membranous, Semi-tendinous and the Biceps Femoris.

What is a Hamstring tear?

​This involves a damage to the muscle fibers or tendons. These tears can be of different grades. The grades are:

  • Grade I – Hurts only when running
  • Grade II – Hurts on walking
  • Grade III – Needs a walking aid to weight bear.

​Symptoms

Generally occurs when the muscle is under load such as in running or jogging. This may feel like a small twinge or a severe pain depending on the grade of the tear. Bruising and inflammation generally follow the onset of pain.

Causes of Injury

  • Inflexibility of the muscle
  • Imbalance between the Quadriceps and the Hamstring muscles as they counter each other in sprinting.
  • Weakness of the muscle
  • Over- stretch combined with lack of warm up.

Prognosis​

  • Grade I – 10-12 days
  • Grade II – 3-4 weeks
  • Grade III – 8-12 weeks.

Disclaimer: The information is for informative purposes and not to replace proper treatment. For more information or to book an appointment please contact Sydney Physios and Allied Health Services