How to Overcome Hamstring Pain
Hamstring pain is linked to a tear in your hamstring muscle, located in the back of your thigh. It is often caused by strenuous physical activity. Common symptoms associated with hamstring discomfort include a sharp pain when stretching your legs, bruising, and swelling. Although home remedies are effective at healing a torn hamstring, you should visit your doctor if pain persists or worsens after two to four weeks, according to Anthony B. Carey, author of "Pain-Free Program."
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Things You'll Need
- Cold compress
- Hamstring slip-on support
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Instructions
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Discontinue exercise. Stretching your hamstrings and walking excessively can cause more damage, resulting in permanent injury. Healing can take anywhere from two to six weeks. During this time, you'll need to limit physical activity.
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Use R.I.C.E. Rest, ice, compression and elevation can temporarily reduce pain from the torn hamstring. Stay off your leg for at least 48 hours after the pain first occurs. Apply a cold compress and a hamstring supporter to your leg to keep the muscle from moving too much. Elevating your leg during this time can keep pressure off of the hamstring, reducing pain.
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Take NSAIDs. Ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen help reduce inflammation and pain. NSAIDs should not be taken for more than seven days, as they can cause bleeding and damage to the kidney and liver, according to Carey.
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Visit your doctor. A physician will determine when you are able to begin light exercising. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help regain strength in your leg.
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Tips & Warnings
Wrap the cold compress in a shirt or pillowcase before applying it to the leg. Direct contact can cause skin irritation.
Do not continue exercising once you experience pain in your hamstring. This can increase the healing time required for a complete recovery.
