Hamstring pain caused by curvature of the spine?

[searsp]

I'm hoping someone can give me some guidance on a problem I've had for the last 18 months!

I'm always had appalling posture based upon me working in an office all day - this has caused minor back problems but nothing too serious.

In September '06, I injured my hamstring playing football. At the time, it felt as though it was a minor tweak or tear and iced, etc to minimise whatever damage I'd done.

However, the dull ache in my hamstring failed to improve and after approx 6 months I sought the advice of my local physio.

He diagnosed a curvature of my spine (relatively minor) and gave me various tips to improve my posture; this in turn should have a positive impact on my hamstring pain.

My posture is indeed much improved for a number of reasons, I'm also wearing MBT shoes at work which is helping also.

However, the pain in my hamstring has not improved, I'd still describe it as a dull ache and I am able to run, etc.

If anyone can offer any suggestions as to what I should do next, I appreciate revisting a oesteopath / physio is the obvious answer however for financial reasons I'm keen to see what else I could try (eg would my GP offer a referral to the hospital for scans, etc and offer treatment on the NHS?)

Any assistance greatly appreciated.
Regards
Pete

[Heidi]

Hi Pete,

It is unlikely that for a minor pain which you can still run on and doesn't affect your daily life that your Doctor would send you for scans. Unless you have a particularly nice Doctor who appreciates how frustrating these little things can be!

Did your physio go down the road of core strengthening with you? With recurring and prolonged hamstring problems this often is the answer. The hamstrings as you know attach to the pelvis. If the pelvis is not stable, the hamstrings do not function properly.

If you're not sure what I mean, have a look here: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/corestability-training1.php

The other thing I would REALLY recommend is sports massage. You didn't mention it so I presume you haven't tried it. It really is excellent for hamstring tears. Your ache may be down to an excessive build up of scar tissue at the site of the tear. Also get the masseur to massage up into your glutes, especially piriformis. This little muscle in your butt is often responsible for hamstring pain as it can compress the sciatic nerve if it gets tight.

I hope this helps
Good luck!

[searsp]

thanks for the advice, greatly appreciated.

Pete