Hamstring injury

A hamstring injury — also called a hamstring strain or pull — is a stretching or tearing of the hamstring muscles, which are located at the back of your thigh. A hamstring injury occurs when muscle is torn due to injury or when it's stretched too far. Hamstring injuries are common in such sports as running, water skiing and cheerleading.

A mild strain may cause only a mild tightness in the back of your thigh. More severe injuries may cause intense pain in the back of the thigh. A doctor may diagnose a hamstring injury based on:

• Physical examination
• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Treatment may include:

• Icing of the affected area
• Compression of the area with an elastic bandage
• Crutches if walking is painful
• Gentle stretching of the thigh and hip
• Physical therapy, including progressive strengthening as appropriate
• Possibly surgery — if the muscle is completely detached from the bone

The best way to prevent a hamstring injury is to keep the muscles strong and flexible with appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises.