Healing and Treatment of Hamstring Strains
Treatment options for hamstring strains include cold therapy, electrotherapy, heat and sports massage. Our step by step program illustrates how a top professional sports physiotherapist might apply these and when.
Stage 1 - Acute Stage:
- Usually lasts 3 -4 days.
- Complete rest.
- Apply PRICE - Protection, Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.
- Ready to move on when daily activities / walking is pain free.
Stage 2 - Sub Acute Stage:
Can last:
- Grade 1 – 10 days
- Grade 2 – 2 to 3 weeks
- Grade 3 – 8 weeks possible surgery.
Treatment:
- Hot and cold alternate – 2 mins hot, 1 min cold. for 6 times (18 mins) twice a day.
- Electrotherapy – U/S, laser, pulse shortwave (daily if poss).
- Massage – soft tissue. Gradually getting deeper. Start short and light.– daily.
Ready to move on when:
- Massage is pain free.
- Running at least jogging.
Stretching progressed to dynamic stage.
Stage 3 - Final Stage:
- Deep tissue massage. every 3 days.
- Heat – 20 mins a time, once a day.
Carry on until back to full fitness.
