Hamstring Strains occur when these muscles and tendons are stretched or torn past their capacity.  The Hamstring muscles are a group of muscles on the back of the thigh that control bending of the knee mainly, along with stabilization and movement functions as well.  When these muscles and tendons strain, it causes irritation and inflammation to build in the muscles and tendons at it origin and insertional sites which cause pain in the bottom of the butt, in the back of the leg, and/or pain behind the knee.  This injury occurs mainly in active people and from repetitive use/overuse typically, but can happen to anyone.  Most commonly we see this injury in individuals who are more active or have a more active job.

Symptoms of Hamstring strains are but not limited to a dull ache, sharp or stabbing pain and occasionally experience a radiating pain with some instances of nerve pain in the back of the leg.  These pains and injury can cause limitation on movements such as walking, running, standing, sitting, climbing and descending stairs, standing from a seated or crouched position.  One may notice that they have trouble straightening their leg because of the tension and cramping pain in the back of their leg.  If left untreated one may expect that the pain will get worse as well as possibilities of further injury to the site of irritation resulting in possible tearing of the muscles or tendons.

The best course of action for this injury is to seek professional advice which can help evaluate the extent of the injury and properly diagnose the injury.  This will help the professional build a proper treatment plan for the injury and the individual.  A proper treatment plan for this injury should include, Manual Therapy to help loosen the muscles and tendons as well as increase blood flow and decrease pain.  Mobility work to help increase function of the muscles and tendons.  Stability and strength work to help support the area and structures for improved movement and prevention of further injury.  And finally, a self-care program that allows the individual to learn how to manage this injury on their own.