Muscle Injuries

Hamstring injuries account for almost 25% of all injuries in sport that require sprinting, kicking and change of direction. The hamstring group are biarticular, meaning they cross 2 joints and are considered more susceptible to muscle strain injuries given greater changes in muscle–tendon length during movement and often need to generate force (contract) while simultaneously lengthening (eccentric contraction). Understanding and differentiating the injury mechanism between accelerative, declarative, maximal speed exposure or over-stretching is vital to develop an appropriate progressive rehabilitation plan. If appropriate, additional imaging  (MRI) can be organised to grade your injury to determine the size of tear and whether there is intra-muscular tendon involvement. These classifications can provide clear guidance on appropriate timeframes and expectations. 

Hip Flexor/  Quadriceps injuries commonly occur during explosive activities such as sprinting, kicking or jumping. The Rectus Femoris is the most common Quad muscle injured. Given the anatomy of the Rectus Femoris (being bi-articular, meaning crossing two joints), it functions as both a hip flexor and a knee extensor and is considered more susceptible to muscle strain injuries. Similar to the hamstring, these bi-articular muscles experience greater changes in muscle–tendon length during movement and often need to generate force while simultaneously lengthening (eccentric contraction). These injuries may cause pain at the front of the thigh, reduced strength and difficulty with running, squatting or kicking.

Groin injuries commonly affect athletes involved in sports requiring kicking, sprinting and rapid changes of direction. Symptoms include pain around the inner thigh, hip or pubic region.  We utilise the DOHA-Agreement classification tool to classify groin pain to assist in diagnosing and differentiating the true source of groin pain. Groin pain, if chronic, (previously often referred to as Osteitis Pubis or Athletic Pubalgia) can often be complex to diagnose and manage and thus this area remains a keen interest in Milo's practice in which he has completed additional professional development in. 

Calf injuries frequently occur during running, jumping and sudden acceleration, affecting both recreationally active individuals and competitive athletes. Symptoms often include sudden pain, tightness or weakness in the back of the lower leg, making walking, running and pushing off difficult. Our physiotherapists focus on progressive strengthening, restoring calf capacity and safely returning you to your chosen sport or activity.