Hamstring Injury

Overview

A hamstring injury is a tear or strain (pulled muscle) in the group of muscles and tendons in the back of your thigh. It’s one of the most common and troublesome injuries seen mostly in athletes.

What is the hamstring? How does it normally work?

The hamstring connects the largest thigh muscle to your bone. The main job of your hamstring is to allow your leg to flex (bend) and extend (stretch). You use your hamstring the most when you:

Lunge.
Run.
Climb.
Sprint.
Jump.
Stretch too far.

What are the grades of a hamstring injury?

The grade describes the severity of your hamstring injury:

Grade 1: A mild muscle pull/strain.
Grade 2: A partial muscle tear.
Grade 3: A complete muscle tear.

Who is most likely to injure their hamstring?

Athletes, especially those who jump, climb and lunge. You’re also more likely to have a hamstring injury if you’ve had one before.

Do hamstring injuries hurt?

Yes. The pain in your thigh may come on suddenly.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

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Diagnosis & treatment

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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