Hamstring Strain Treatment

Our Sydney Sports Chiropractor often sees patients requiring hamstring strain treatment. They are the muscle group at the back of your thigh which often strain or tear. A major factor that can cause hamstring strains is an imbalance of the pelvis, which then alters the function of the surrounding joints, ligaments and muscles. They can also be caused due to over-use, or direct trauma to the area.

Hamstring strains most commonly occur due to rapid acceleration whilst running, or when footballers perform a kick. They are also commonly seen in sports such as football, hockey and athletics. Strains tend to occur more commonly in older athletes and particularly following an inadequate warm-up. There are several grades of hamstring strains ranging from a grade 1 to a grade 3 tear.

Patients usually feel a sudden sharp pain or pulling sensation in the back of the thigh and may be unable to continue the activity or will often limp or be unable to walk.

Treatment for a Muscle Strain

Treatment for a hamstring strain or calf strain may involve :

• soft tissue massage and friction therapy
• anti-inflammatory advice
• stretches and joint mobilisation
• ice or heat treatment
• exercises to improve strength, flexibility or balance
• advice on recommended exercises
• bio-mechanical correction of the pelvis and lower spine
  
• use of custom orthotics and footwear advice
• return to sports plan
• technique correction

Early treatment is essential.

Ankle Sprains – Running Injuries

Up to 70% of runners develop injuries every year. Most injuries result either from doing something wrong or because there is a structural imbalance in the body. Ankle sprains are common injuries to the ligaments of the ankle, that are commonly treated by our Sydney Chiropractor at Advanced Care Chiropractic.

The injury has varying degrees of severity, which may include inflammation, tearing of ligaments, or the complete rupture of ligaments. Depending on the severity, ankle sprain treatment may require rehabilitation, or even surgery.

Initially, our Sydney Chiropractor will assess the ankle joint, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon, amongst other things.

Ankle sprains are the most common injuries for athletes. And if not properly treated and rehabilitated, ankle sprains can leave behind weakness and instability in the joint long after the initial swelling disappears.

Acute treatment should start as quickly as possible after the injury has occurred. The objective of acute treatment is primarily to prevent additional injury and reduce bleeding as much as possible. Effective acute treatment will limit swelling, the formation of scar tissue, and the number of complications that can arise.  

Why Do Sprains and Strains Occur 

1. Lower back or pelvis misalignments

Malfunction of joints in the pelvis and lower back may interfere with nerves exiting the spine, resulting in referred pain, numbness, pins and needles or weakness in the legs. Nerves to blood vessels may also be affected, and can cause hot or cold changes, or pain in the legs.

2. Imbalance of other joints.

This may arise at the hip, knee, ankle or foot.

3. Muscle or tendon injury

Muscle and tendon injuries frequently arise from:

a. Sudden trauma – including injuries from sporting or car accidents, or from falls, knocks and sudden jolts.

b. Overuse/excessive loading – resulting from repetitive strains from work, poor posture, carrying school bags on one shoulder, sporting activities, poor bedding/pillows or sleep patterns, incorrect footwear, etc.

4. Osteoarthritis.

Injury and poor joint function can cause premature wear and tear, leading to osteoarthritis. Correct joint alignment, mobility, and muscle balance are essential in preventing degenerative changes.

Sports Chiropractic Approach

Many common problems such as sciatica, bursitis, runners knee, recurrent ankle and knee strains/sprains, shin splints and metatarsalgia respond well to Chiropractic treatment.

At Advanced Care Chiropractic, we will examine your spine, pelvis, hips, knees and feet. X-rays or other scans may be taken. A course of treatments will then be recommended to re-establish normal function. Treatments may involve muscle therapy, strengthening exercises, and specific Chiropractic mobilizations/manipulations.

Ongoing care may be recommended to assist in the maintenance of health and for the prevention of future problems for maximum benefit.

Prevention is far better than cure.