Course Description:

The hamstring muscle group is comprised of 3 muscles in the posterior thigh. The semimembranosus and the semitendinosus insert distally onto the medial tibia, whereas the biceps femoris inserts onto the fibular head. These muscles are highly susceptible to strain injuries, especially in persons involved in sprinting, kicking, or high-speed skilled movements. In fact, hamstring strains are one of the most common sports-related injuries, responsible for limiting individuals from participating in physical activity and sports. Furthermore, 30% of those who suffer a hamstring strain re-injure the involved hamstring within the following 12 months. In addition to a history of a hamstring strain and participation in running sports, risk factors include age over 23 years, decreased flexibility and relative weakness of the hamstrings compared to the quadriceps or hip flexors. Therapeutic exercises for hamstring strains should include eccentric strengthening and dynamic stretching. Proper rehabilitation is vital, especially in patients who participate in high-risk activities (e.g., sprinting, football, dancing, water skiing), in order to decrease the likelihood of re-injury.