The hamstring consists of muscles and tendons that are located at the back of the femur (thigh bone) and attach at the pelvic bone and the top of the leg bones (tibia and fibula). They work together to bend (flex) the knee and extend the hip.

Hamstring tendon injuries are common in dancers and athletes who participate in running sports, such as track, soccer, football and basketball. When a hamstring tendon is stretched too far or receives a sudden load, a pull or tear may occur.

Commonly reported symptoms of hamstring tendon injuries include sudden pain in the back of the thigh, swelling, bruising, inability to put weight on the leg, and weakness in the hamstring muscles for several weeks.

A sports medicine specialist at Lancaster Orthopedic Group will diagnose your condition based on your medical history, your symptoms, and a clinical examination of your hip and pelvis. An MRI or ultrasound may be recommended to determine the extent of injury or identify a hamstring tendon tear.

Treatment for hamstring tendon injuries include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections and physical therapy. Surgery may be recommended for hamstring tears or to repair hamstring muscles that have detached from the bone, particularly for young or athletic patients.