Hamstring Tear Recovery

The hamstring is a part of the muscle group that allows flexibility of the knee, thus tearing it is a common injury among athletes. Hamstring tears are painful and sometimes require surgery. The recovery process without surgery can be done at home or with out-patient services.

Stretching

• After at-home treatment--icing and keeping the hamstring rested and elevated--simple stretching should be done. Lying on the floor, bend the uninjured leg and place the foot on the floor; keep the injured leg straight and use a band or towel to carefully pull it up to the chest.

Physical Therapy

• For more serious tears, out-patient physical therapy might be required. The therapist will come up with a routine of assisted exercises to stretch and strengthen the hamstring.

Medications

• In mild tears over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can be taken to reduce pain and swelling, while in more serious tears a doctor may prescribe pain killers.

Time Frame

• Surgery or not, a torn hamstring generally takes 10 to 14 days to fully recover.

Warning

• It is vital that physical activities that involve the use of the torn hamstring be completely avoided until the muscle has completely healed, otherwise further injury and damage could occur.