4491 Stirling Road, Unit# 101
Davie, Fl 33314
(954) 562-6197 or appt@margiesmassage.com
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Tues - Fri 9:00 am -7:00pm
Sat. 9:00am - 7:00pm
Sunday & Monday - Closed
By Appointments Only
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MM20460, MA34576
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Pulled Hamstring / Hamstring Strain
What is a pulled hamstring or hamstring strain?
A hamstring strain or a pulled hamstring as it is sometimes called is a tear in one or more of the hamstrings muscles. Strictly speaking there are three hamstring muscles (Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus and Biceps femoris) which are known as the hamstring muscle group. These muscles all originate from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis (see figure 1). Biceps femoris, in addition, has a second portion, known as the small head, that originates from the lower outer portion of the femur bone itself.
How is the hamstring strained?
During sprinting the hamstring muscles work extremely hard to decelerate the tibia as it swings out. In addition, once the foot is on the ground the hamstrings function in extending the hip back which in turn allows the other leg to move forwards. It is in this phase just before the foot strikes the ground that the hamstrings, most commonly the biceps femoris muscle, become injured as the muscles are maximally activated and are approaching their maximum length. There are a number of factors that increase the risk of an individual to a pulled hamstring:
- Age: The older the individual the greater at risk to a pulled hamstring.
- Previous Injury: Prior injuries to the hamstrings or adductor muscles can greatly increase the risk of the hamstrings to future damage.
- Flexibility: Research suggests that the greater the flexibility of the hamstrings the less prone they are to injury.
- Hamstring strength: Similarly studies have shown that lack of hamstring strength is strongly linked to a susceptibility to a pulled hamstring.
- Lumbosacral nerve impingement: Nerve impingement in L5-S1 can lead to associated hamstring muscle weakness.
- Tiredness and fitness: When a player is fatigued he/she loses coordination between within certain muscle groups. The biceps femoris muscle is known to become damaged due its two portions being innervated by two separate nerves. In states of tiredness, lack of synchronization between these two nerves can lead to a mismatch in firing resulting in a pulled hamstring.
Symptoms of a Pulled Hamstring:
- A sudden sharp pain at the back of the leg during exercise-most probably during sprinting or high velocity movements
- Hamstring muscles going into spasm-will be associated with pain on stretch and contraction.
- Swelling and bruising.
- If the rupture is severe a gap in the muscle may be felt.
Prevention of Pulled Hamstrings:
- One of the most important methods of preventing a pulled hamstring is to warm up correctly- this has been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of hamstring strain. This should consist of some light aerobic exercise.
- A specific strengthening program for the hamstring muscle group is vital in those athletes regularly undertaking sprinting and high velocity sports.
- It is extremely important to continue to strengthen all other muscles in the region of the thighs, pelvis and lower back to ensure correct muscle balance
- Stretching both before and after exercise
- Regular deep tissue massage can help prevent muscle strains by identifying tight knots and weak points in the muscle.
Our office in Davie is accessible to cities such as Aventura, Cooper City, Dania Beach, Ft Lauderdale, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Las Olas, Miami Gardens, North Miami Beach, Pembroke Pines, Tamarac, Sunrise, and Weston. There are many ways you can reach us by either I-95, 595, SR 7, Florida's Turnpike. We are also 5 minutes away from Seminole Hard Rock Casino. Swedish Massage | Pregnancy Massage | Deep Tissue Massage | Reflexology | Lypossage™ | Hot Stone Massage
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