Hamstring tendinopathy

WHAT IS HAMSTRING TENDINOPATHY?

Hamstring tendinopathy is a condition affecting the hamstring tendons where they attach to the ischium bone of the pelvis. Long distance runners are more at risk of being diagnosed with hamstring tendinopathy.

Symptoms include:

• • • • • Buttock pain, occasionally the pain can radiate down if the sciatic nerve is affected.
        • Muscle weakness.
        • Swelling.
        • Inflammation.
        • Sharp burning pain.
        • Muscle and joint stiffness.

HOW DO WE DIAGNOSE HAMSTRING TENDINOPATHY?

Clinicians will usually ask a series of questions, followed by an examination of the hip. A clinician may also recommend having an X-Ray to rule out any bony problems in the hip. An ultrasound scan will diagnose the condition.

HOW DO WE TREAT HAMSTRING TENDINOPATHY?

Treatment can depend on how serious the condition is; most cases get better within a few days/a week.

Treatment for mild cases may include:

• • • • • Rest, as this allows the shoulder to heal naturally.
        • Over the counter medication, like paracetamol and ibuprofen. (It is important to speak to your GP or a Healthcare Professional before any medication is taken.)
        • Physiotherapy should reduce pain and inflammation and strengthen the hip.
        • Ultrasound Guided Steroid Injections are still used to manage acute pain and to reduce swelling and inflammation. However steroid injections have been shown to cause detrimental damage to tendons in the long term. Repeated steroid injections should be avoided.
        • Ultrasound Guided PRP Injections help reduce pain and inflammation and promotes tissue healing by using the growth factors found within your blood plasma.