How To Treat Pulled Hamstring Muscle

When you experience a pain at the back of your leg, you are likely experiencing a pulled muscle and you will definitely want to know how to treat pulled hamstring muscle. The hamstring muscle is a group of 3 muscles located behind the upper leg that is prone to injury such as strain or tears.

1. Rest. A pulled hamstring muscle may manifest pain, soreness, swelling, and inflammation. At the initial stage of the injury, a pulled hamstring muscle needs rest.
2. Ice. Application of cold compress within the first 24 hours of the injury can reduce swelling and inflammation. An ice wrapped in a clean cloth and applied on the affected area can relieve the feeling of soreness.
3. Wrap the leg with a bandage. Elevating the affected leg with applied compression of a bandage can help the pulled hamstring muscle from swelling more. This technique will aid the circulation in the tissues and will prevent further swelling on the strained or torn hamstring muscle.
4. Start mobilization exercise. Prolonged immobilization of the leg will promote contractures on the hamstring muscle, thus early mobilization exercise is critical to help the hamstrings regain its elasticity and mobility. Exercise within the pain free range is ideal. This consists of stretching and strengthening leg exercise.
5. Get rehabilitation and physical therapy treatment. When the condition of a pulled hamstring muscle is quite severe, getting into a physical therapy treatment and rehabilitation will help facilitate the healing process of the injured hamstring. Apart from the mobilization exercises, modality treatments such as the use of ultrasound, massage, and gait training will all enhance the recovery phase of a pulled hamstring muscle during a rehabilitation program.
6. Take medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines will help reduce the pain caused by the pulled hamstring muscle. Other medicines such as aspirin and paracetamol prescribed for pain will also help reduce the pain symptom.