Conditions we treat
Hamstring Injuries
Reviewed by Andrew Macdonald, Senior Physiotherapist — AHPRA registered, APA member
What is a Hamstring Injury?
The hamstrings are the group of muscles running down the back of the thigh, commonly strained during sprinting, sudden acceleration, or overstretching. It’s a frequent injury in running-based sport, but just as likely from a fast start after standing from rest.
Symptoms
Symptoms range from a mild pulling sensation and tightness through to sudden sharp pain at the back of the thigh, sometimes with bruising and swelling for more significant tears, and pain with stretching, sprinting or bending forward.
Treatment
Andrew’s assessment determines the severity of the strain and builds a staged rehabilitation plan — starting with pain and swelling management, then progressive strengthening and flexibility work, and finally sprint-specific loading before returning to full training. Hamstring injuries have a high rate of recurrence when rehab is cut short, so completing the full programme — not just resting until the pain settles — is what actually prevents it happening again.
How we treat it
Treatments used for hamstring injuries
Frequently asked questions
How long does a hamstring strain take to heal?
Mild strains can improve within 1–2 weeks, while more significant tears can take 6–8 weeks or longer to fully rehabilitate. Rushing back before the muscle has regained full strength and flexibility is the main reason hamstring injuries recur.
Why do hamstring injuries keep coming back?
Because they're often treated with rest alone rather than a full strength and flexibility rehabilitation programme. Andrew's staged approach specifically targets the strength and sprint-loading capacity needed to protect against re-injury, not just symptom relief.
Can I keep running with a hamstring strain?
Not through pain — continuing to load a strained hamstring risks turning a mild strain into a more significant tear. Andrew will guide you on when and how to safely reintroduce running as part of your rehab programme.
Should I stretch a hamstring strain?
Gentle, pain-free stretching has a role later in rehab, but aggressive stretching too early can aggravate a fresh strain. Andrew will guide you on the right time to introduce stretching as part of your recovery.
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