Acute hamstring muscle strains and the physiotherapy role: a narrative review.

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Faculty of physical therapy, Alreyada University

2 Department of physical therapy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba

Abstract

Background: The most common muscle strain is an acute hamstring strain, which has a high recurrence rate and the potential for prolonged absence (>28 days) from sports. The goals of hamstring injury rehabilitation are to achieve the pre-injury level of functional activity and to return to sports with minimal risk of recurrence. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review the literature about acute hamstring muscle strains and their physical therapy interventions. Methods: The published studies in the PubMed, Google Scholar, SciELO, LILACS, and Cochrane Library databases, which studied hamstring strains were reviewed. Studies of high to fair quality, like systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and RCTs, were included. Studies of low quality and studies that didn’t match the scope of the current study were excluded. Results: Neuromuscular control, core stability, and eccentric strength exercises have reduced both the time needed to return to sport and the risk of hamstring re-injury. The recommended rehabilitation protocol is divided into three stages with specific treatment goals and progression criteria. Other physical therapy modalities, like US, cooling, and massage, are widely used, but their effectiveness is arguable. Return to sport decision-making is widely debated Conclusion: The time needed for rehabilitation depends on the location and severity of the injury. Besides the recommended rehabilitation protocol, neuromuscular control, core stability, and eccentric strength exercises are effective rehabilitative and preventive programs. Gradual return to full sporting activity demands and continued independent rehabilitation are critical for lowering the risk of re-injury.

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