Hamstring Injuries and Rehabilitation
I was recently reading the article titled “Hamstring Strains: Basic Science and Clinical Research Applications for Preventing the Recurrent Injury” that was published in the strength and conditioning journal in 2011 and thought I would discuss some of the key take home messages.
Hamstrings injuries are currently one of the most common of lower limb injuries and are typically seen in the individual who is active and plays sport. Typically hamstring strains occur during sprinting, kicking or when performing a high speed skilled movement. In Australia, hamstring strains are probably one of the most common injuries seen in AFL.
Key Messages From The Article
- Risk factors for hamstring strains include: Previous history of a hamstring injury, older age, decreased quadriceps flexibility and muscle imbalances around the thigh.
- Most hamstring strains typically occur whilst running and it is believed they typically occur at the terminal swing phase of the running gait.
- Many hamstring injuries typically occur along the proximal musculotendinous junction.
- Rehabilitation and reconditioning of hamstrings should not just focus on the hamstring itself, but also the regions around the hamstrings i.e. lumbopelvic region etc.
- Upon return to play, individuals should incorporate dynamic warm up movement preparation drills that are focused on running technique, lumbopelvic control and hamstring function. Examples can include marching, A skips, B skips, cariocas, side shuffles, leg cycling, ankle pops and running drills. Core drills can include wood chops, bracing movements i.e. plank with movement, bridging and single leg holds/reaches. Eccentric exercises such as the nordic curl is often also commonly prescribed. Other alternatives could include lunges, single leg deadlifts, RDLs etc.
This blog post was written by osteopath Heath Williams at Principle Four Osteopathy. At Principle Four Osteopath we provide a range of services, including osteopathy manual therapy consultations, functional movement screening, exercise prescription, strength and conditioning and rehabilitation.
Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD and Docklands leading osteopathy clinics. Both clinics are equipped with training equipment so that we are able to get you actively involved and moving towards a better moving you.
Principle Four Osteopathy CBD clinic is located at 29 Somerset Place, Melbourne 3000.
Principle Four Osteopathy Docklands clinic is located at 717 Bourke St, Docklands, 3008.
Book an appointment online at www.principlefourosteopathy.com or call 03 9670 9290.