Treatments for a Hamstring Injury

Hamstring injuries are common but especially affect athletes of many sports. A hamstring injury can heal without treatment if given enough time, but it is quite painful if left unattended, so most sufferers seek relief for the pain. Treatments for a hamstring injury are varied.

Ultrasound Therapy

• Ultrasound therapy can relieve the pain of a pulled hamstring. Ultrasound devices are available that can be used at home. Using the ultrasound before engaging in any activities will relax the hamstring muscles, reduce pain, keep the muscles from becoming inflamed and speed the healing of the hamstring.

Cold Compression Wraps

• Cold compression wraps are used by doctors and some professional baseball and soccer teams as a treatment for hamstring injuries. The wraps can be placed in a cooler and taken out to the sports field so they are readily available if a player would pull a hamstring muscle during a game.

Inferno Wrap

• Inferno wraps are a popular treatment for hamstring injuries. The muscle is heated to increase blood flow in the injured area, which increases the flow of nutrients to the injured muscle and flushes out toxins to speed healing.

Ice

• Placing ice on the injured hamstring two to three times per day for 15 to 20 minutes each time helps to decrease the build up of fluid in the muscle. Gel packs are reusable and will mold to the leg. The ice will reduce inflammation.

Elevation

• Elevating the injured hamstring muscle above the chest relieves pressure and allows any fluid from the injured area to drain. Gently massage the area around the pulled muscle and flex the leg to prevent stiffness and to increase the flow of oxygen, blood and nutrients to the injury.

Compression

• Add light pressure to the hamstring to decrease swelling. Make sure the compress is not so tight that it cuts off circulation to the area, perhaps causing tingling, numbness and increased pain. The compress should be snug, not tight.