Avoiding Hamstring Injuries

For those of you who have strained a hamstring, you know how painful and debilitating it can be to your everyday lifestyle. United Rehab Physical Therapy in Ronkonkoma, New York specializes in treating and preventing hamstring strains. A hamstring strain usually occurs when performing quick, sharp, movement such a jumping, running, pivoting, or even reaching for a ball. It can cause symptoms such as:

• Severe pain in the upper leg/ buttocks

• Bruising

• Swelling

• Muscle spasms

In Ronkonkoma, our physical therapists have found that there are many factors that contribute to hamstring strains, which can be easily prevented. A few are:

• An imbalance of strength between the hamstrings and quadriceps

• Not warming up properly

• Having fatigued muscles

• Tremendous force

When an imbalance of strength between the hamstring and quads occur, a person becomes susceptible to a hamstring strain. At United Rehab in Ronkonkoma, we understand that the difference in strength between the hamstring and quad is a common factor for strains. The reason being is because the quad is stronger and the hamstring uses more energy in order to keep up. Avoiding a warm up is also a risk factor because the muscle is cold and tight. If the muscle is fatigued from training it becomes more valuable to a hamstring strain. Also, tremendous force, such a burst of speed while exercising, can cause a hamstring strain. On the bright side, at United Rehab in Ronkonkoma, we discovered that there are many ways to avoiding hamstring strains.

Some tips our physical therapists in Ronkonkoma recommend for avoiding hamstring strains are:

• Regular stretching

• Strengthening exercises for the hamstring and quadriceps

• Staying in shape when participating in a sport

• Regular conditioning

• Applying ice for 15 minutes after exercise

• Decrease intensity of workout

If you have any questions on treating or avoiding hamstring strain, contact United Rehab Physical Therapy in Ronkonkoma for professional help!