Hamstring Contusion

What is a contusion? This type of injury is very common in contact sports. An impact to the muscles can cause more damage than might be expected and should be treated with respect. The muscle is crushed against the bone. If not treated correctly or if treated too aggressively then myositis ossificans may result. There are two types of contusion: Intramuscular which is a tearing of the muscle within the sheath that surrounds it. This means that the initial bleeding may stop early (within hours) because of increased pressure within the muscle however the fluid is unable to escape as the muscle sheath prevents it. The result is considerable loss of function and pain which can take days or weeks to recover. There is not likely to be any bruising with this type - especially in the early stages. Intermuscular which is a tearing of the muscle and part of the sheath surrounding it. This means that the initial bleeding will take longer to stop especially if cold therapy or ice is not applied. However recovery is often faster than intramuscular as the blood and fluids can flow away from the site of injury. There is more likely to be bruising with this type of injury. What are the symptoms? Pain at the site of injury. There may be swelling or bruising (see below). Restricted movement is not uncommon. After two to three days check: If the swelling has not gone then the athlete probably has an intramuscular injury. If the bleeding has spread and caused bruising away from the site of the injury then they probably have an intermuscular injury. If they are more able to contract the muscle then an intermuscular injury is suspected. Is there a deformation in the muscle or a gap? It is important the correct diagnosis is made because trying to exercise on a complete rupture, or a bad intramuscular injury can inhibit healing, make things worse or cause permanent disability. If heat and massage is applied in the early stages then Myositis Ossificans (or bone forming within the muscle) may result. Like muscle strains, contusions are grade 1, 2 or 3 depending on the severity. Grade 1: What does it feel like? Might have tightness in the back of the lower leg. May be able to walk properly. Probably won't have much swelling. Nearly a full range of motion. What can the athlete do? Rest, Ice, Compress and Elevate (R.I.C.E.) immediately. See a sports injury professional for advice on treatment and rehabilitation. What can a Sports Injury Professional or Doctor do? Use sports massage techniques to speed up recovery (very important). Use ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Prescribe a rehabilitation programme consisting of stretching, strengthening and sports massage techniques. Grade 2: What does it feel like? Probably cannot walk properly. Occasional sudden twinges of pain during activity. May notice swelling. Pressing in causes pain. Contracting the hamstring muscles against resistance causes pain. May have limited range of movement.. What can the athlete do? Ice, compress, elevate, use crutches for 3 to 5 days. See a sports injury professional who can advise on treatment and rehabilitation. What can a Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor do? Use sports massage techniques to speed up recovery (very important). Use ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Prescribe a rehabilitation programme. Grade 3: What does it feel like? Unable to walk properly without the aid of crutches. In severe pain. Bad swelling appear immediately. A static contraction will be painful and might produce a bulge in the muscle. Expect to be out of competition for 3 to twelve weeks. What can the athlete do? Seek medical attention immediately. R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.) Use crutches. See a sports injury professional who can advise on treatment and rehabilitation. What can a Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor do? Use sports massage techniques to speed up recovery (very important). Use ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Prescribe a rehabilitation programme and monitor it. Operate if needed.   The information contained on this site is purely a source of information and can at no time replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice before embarking on any form of self treatment. Neither the content or nor any other service provided through mybesttennis.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking professional advice because of something seen on mybesttennis.com.