Hamstring Muscle Injuries
Top Washington D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia Orthopedic Surgeons Specializing in Hamstring Muscle Injuries
The hamstrings are three powerful muscles that travel along the back of your thigh. They are the semitendinosus, the semimembranosus and the biceps femoris muscles. They help bend your knee and extend your leg behind your body. Because these muscles handle high loads of stress, they are susceptible to stretching and tearing. This is called a muscle "strain." Hamstring strains are common among runners, dancers, and athletes who play sports that require sudden starts and stops.
What are hamstring muscle injuries?
This detailed video describes hamstring muscle injuries, including mild, moderate, and severe injuries. Hamstring injuries, even severe ones, can be treated effectively. But if you have had a hamstring injury, you may have an increased risk for injuring the muscle again in the future. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions to make sure you heal correctly.