How to Treat a Pulled Hamstring

The hamstring muscles are frequently injured due to a lack of stretching before a sprint or run. People who are really fast, i.e. most athletes, stand a greater chance of pulling their hamstrings because when they run they put a lot more stress on their muscles than the average person. An imbalance in strength between the quads and hamstrings are also a common cause of pulled hamstrings.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Apply ice to the injury immediately, for 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Elevate your leg above your heart if possible.
3. Use an elastic bandage to decrease swelling and muscle irritation.
4. Rest your leg.
5. Gradually resume activity as the pain decreases, but be prepared to not be able to run full speed for about 2-4 weeks, depending on the severity of the pull.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to warm up and stretch your muscles before any physical activity.
• If pulled hamstrings are a chronic problem, you may want to massage the muscle on a daily basis, and also apply heat every day through a moist heat pack, hot towel or shower. It could indicate a back or hip problem, so get an evaluation from a physical therapist or physician.
• Do not start working out like you did before the injury too soon because if the muscle hasn't healed completely you will pull it again and then the healing process starts all over again.