The hamstring muscles are located at the back of the thigh and play a key role in leg extension and knee bending. They are connected to the bones by hamstring tendons.

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​Types of Hamstring Injuries

• Hamstring Strain: Stretching of the muscle or tendon without tearing, often from overstretching.

• Hamstring Tear: Partial or complete rupture of muscle fibers or tendon.

• Hamstring Avulsion: The tendon fully separates from the pelvis bone, the most severe injury. 

 

Causes

• Muscle Imbalance: Weaker hamstrings compared to quadriceps increase injury risk.

• Inadequate Warm-Up: Failing to warm up properly.

• Sudden Movements: Activities involving sprinting, jumping, or quick changes in direction.

• Fatigue: Overexertion and muscle fatigue.

• Previous Injuries: Residual weakness or scar tissue increases risk of re-injury.

• Age: Decreased muscle flexibility with age.

• Environmental Factors: Running on uneven surfaces or in extreme conditions.   

 

Symptoms

• Sharp pain in the thigh, especially near the buttocks.

• Difficulty weight-bearing or limping.

• Swelling, bruising, and muscle weakness.

• Muscle spasms and difficulty extending the leg.

• Audible “pop” in severe cases. 

 

Diagnosis

• Physical Exam: Checking for bruising, weakness, and swelling.

• maging: X-rays reveal avulsions, while MRIs provide detailed images of the injury.