Hamstring Injuries
Conditions and Responses Home
The Hamstrings are made up of four muscles, Semimembranosus, Semitcndinosus,
Biceps Femoris, and Gastrocnemius, which attach to the lower edge of the
pelvic frame at the ischial tubcrosity, the sitting bones .These take a considerable strain during many sporting
activities and need to be developed
as conscientiously as the "Quads" often are.
The hamstring muscles actively bend (flex) the knee. They also act to straighten or (extend) the hip (as in the motion of moving the thigh backwards). Surprisingly, these large muscles are not very active with normal walking or standing. However, they are extremely important in power activities such as running, jumping, and climbing. Thus, sedentary individuals can get by with quite weak or de-conditioned hamstrings, whereas athletes and very physically active individuals absolutely depend on healthy, well-conditioned hamstrings.
Causes of Hamstring Injuries
Injuries usually occur with sudden lunging,
running or jumping resulting in muscle injury. Oftentimes a "pop" is
heard or felt by the injured athlete. A variable amount of pain is
experienced. The athlete is usually unable to continue and oftentimes
cannot even stand.
Symptoms of Hamstring Injuries
Examination of the individual reveals spasm, tightness, and tenderness.
With more severe injury, swelling and a black and blue or bruised
appearance will follow. In some cases, a palpable defect (detectable by
touching) will be present in the muscle. Tears and strains most often
occur at the middle of the back of the thigh where the muscle joins its
tendon or at the origin of the hamstring at the base of the buttocks (at
the ischium).
