How To Treat Hamstring Tears

Hamstring tears are one of the most painful sports injuries and knowing how to treat hamstring tears will make recovery a little more comfortable. Treatment of a torn hamstring depends on how badly it is torn. Doctors usually categorize hamstring tears as grade one, two or three--grade one being a cramp or mild strain of the hamstring; two being more painful than one felt upon walking; and three being a complete tear of the hamstring and surrounding muscles.

In order to learn about how to treat hamstring tears, you will need:

• A medical professional
• Ice
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

1. See a doctor Doctors who specialize in sports injuries are better equipped to deal with hamstring tears because they have seen so many of them. They could allow you to return to your sport faster than a general practitioner might.
2. Rest Depending on the severity of your tear, you might have to rest for five days or up to six weeks. If your hamstring is especially painful, your doctor might recommend crutches.
3. Ice Icing can reduce inflammation and bleeding in your muscles. You can ice your hamstring up to twenty minutes every hour. If possible, you should have your leg elevated while icing.
4. Take Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation. Reducing inflammation will reduce pain. Don't take Ibuprofen if you have already been prescribed medication containing a NSAID. Ibuprofen is safe to take with acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) if pain is really severe.

References:

Hamstring Injuries

NSAIDs