Hamstring Tendonitis involves an aching pain in one or both legs, in the area above the knee, the biceps and often on the back of the upper legs. This form of tendonitis, the inflammation of the tendons that connect the body’s muscles to the bone, is most often present in runners and athletes who participate in track and field sports. Hamstring tendonitis is sometimes mistaken for simple soreness of muscles after a strenuous workout, or a marathon. As with other forms of tendonitis, the most common symptoms of this condition include soreness, pain and a decrease in mobility. Hamstring tendonitis may also cause noticeable swelling in the area around the knee cap. Some patients have observed that the pain is worse at night and that it also increases during physical activity.
How Can You Develop Hamstring Tendonitis?
Although age is an important factor and anyone can develop hamstring tendonitis, the people most susceptible to this condition are those who have recently started a vigorous, new exercise routine after an extended period of relative inactivity. Additionally, athletes, especially runners, who regularly train on hard surfaces, are more likely to develop hamstring tendonitis. This is why it is better to run, or jog on specially developed tracks, rather than on concrete roads or pavement.
What Can You Do To Treat Hamstring Tendonitis?
The best treatment for hamstring tendonitis involves natural, non-invasive solutions. Like with most sport injuries, it is helpful to apply ice to the affected area in order to reduce both the swelling and pain. If the pain persists, it is best to use non-prescription medications, such as Motrin, Tylenol or Advil. The most important, however, is not to engage in strenuous physical activity or work-outs until the symptoms of hamstring tendonitis subside. Additionally, the patient’s return to physical activity should occur gradually, over an extended period of time, in order not to irritate the affected tendons.
There are also a number of precautions one can take in order to avoid future episodes of tendonitis. It is important to always warm up and to stretch the muscles prior to physical activities, such as running and also to allow for a cooling off period immediately following any type of exercise. Avoiding running or jogging on rigid surfaces will also help runners avoid extra, unnecessary strain on muscles in the legs. Additionally, athletes should always avoid strenuous physical activity when their muscles still feel sore from previous work-outs.
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