Hamstring injuries are very common among athletes especially those involved in field and track events or sports such as soccer, tennis, football and basketball. A hamstring injury is also known as a muscle strain that results from a forceful pulling action that causes the muscles and/or tendons to stretch or tear. Poor strength and flexibility of the hamstring muscles cause injuries which commonly arise due to fatigued muscles.
First Aid for Hamstring Injuries
For all degrees of hamstring injuries (first, second and third), the RICER regime holds good.
- Rest the limb
- Ice should be applied to affected area
- Compression should be provided with a bandage
- Elevate the limb
- Refer a doctor or physiotherapy
This treatment should continue for 48-72 hours. Medical help should be sought right after the first 72 hours for a proper rehabilitation program which would involve a great deal of strength and stretching exercises, massage therapy and ultrasound.