Blog - Tuesday 17th May 2016

Hamstring Strain Rehabilitation Advice

Are you suffering from a hamstring strain? If so continue reading for some rehabilitation advice…

Phase I

  1. Ice massage with knee extended and hip flexed as far as possible. Perform before and after exercise and as often as possible between exercise sessions.
  2. Mild full leg compression wrap for initial 48 – 72 hours.
  3. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication.
  4. Static hamstring stretching exercises as tolerated 4 – 5 times daily. Each stretch should be held for 15 – 30 seconds. DO NOT BOUNCE.
  5. PNF stretching

Phase II (2 – 7 days post injury)

  • Begin moist heat applications before exercise after danger of internal bleeding has passed (2 – 4 days)
  • Begin ultrasound or electrical muscle stimulation, when danger of internal bleeding has passed, preferably prior to exercise.
  • NSAID medications.
  • Continue previous static and PNF stretching.
  • Begin hamstring strengthening exercises using light weight and high repetitions:

 

1) Straight Leg Raises

  • Prone
  • Abduction
  • Adduction

2) Standing knee flexion

3) Bent over hip extension

4) Ball squeeze

5) Partial squats

6) Forward step-ups

7) Seated leg press

8) Chair walk

  • Begin interval work on stationary bicycle.
  • Begin light jogging on smooth, straight surface.
  • Begin stair climbing exercises, increasing step height as tolerated.
  • Ice massage after exercise.
  • Progress to Phase III when Phase II can be completed with little or no discomfort.

Phase III

  • Continue moist heat before exercise.
  • Continue ultrasound preferably before exercise.
  • Continue NSAIDs.
  • Continue static and PNF stretching.
  • Progress strengthening exercises as tolerated.
  • Begin functional activities to tolerance.

1) High knee running,

2) Backward running,

3) Vertical leaps progressing to horizontal jumping.

4) Sprints with running starts and coast-through stops.

Return to full activities as tolerated when Phase III can be completed with little or no discomfort.

Need any advice or treatment just give us a call on 0191 281 7703, our physio’s can help!

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