Proximal Hamstring Tear

Proximal Hamstring Tear services offered in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs, CA

Hamstring injuries are among the most common sports injuries, and proximal hamstring tears account for at least 12% of them. Early treatment from Hansel E. Ihn, MD, in Rancho Mirage and Palm Springs, California, is crucial for restoring hamstring strength and function, as well as preventing reinjury. Call the office or book an appointment online today to get an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for a proximal hamstring tear that eases the pain and allows you to return to your activities.

Proximal Hamstring Tear Q & A

What is a proximal hamstring tear?

The hamstrings are three muscles on the back of the thigh. They’re responsible for extending the hip and flexing the knee. They also contribute to hip rotation.

Proximal refers to locations that are nearer to the center of the body. (By comparison, distal means a location farther away from the center.)

A proximal hamstring tear occurs when one or more of the muscles tear in their upper half. The hamstring tendons may also tear away from where they’re attached to the pelvis.

(By comparison, a distal tear occurs when the injury is in the lower half of the hamstrings or where the tendons attach to the shinbone.)

What symptoms does a proximal hamstring tear cause?

It’s common to experience a popping or tearing sensation when the hamstrings tear. This sensation is accompanied by severe pain in the back of the thigh.

You may also have:

Buttock pain
Swelling and bruising
Tingling (pins and needles sensation) if a nerve is pinched
Hamstring weakness

It’s common for all three hamstring muscles to tear during the same injury. However, proximal hamstring tears are seldom accompanied by a fracture.

How is a proximal hamstring tear treated?

Dr. Ihn personalizes your treatment based on the severity of the damage and your needs and expectations.

Partial tears often respond to non-surgical treatments such as:

Resting and avoiding the activity that caused the tear
Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
Using assistive devices like crutches
Wearing a compression bandage
Using cold and heat therapy
Immobilizing the knee with a brace
Physical therapy

If your symptoms persist, you have a complete muscle tear, or the tendon has separated from the bone, Dr. Ihn discusses surgery to repair the tear, including removing scar tissue and reattaching the tendon to the bone with anchors.

Rehabilitation for a proximal tear begins as soon as possible and typically takes six months. At first, your therapy focuses on stretching to improve flexibility and range of motion. As you make progress, your therapist adds strengthening exercises and sport-specific rehabilitation.

Hansel E. Ihn, MD, provides expert care for proximal hamstring tears. Call the office to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online today.