THIGH STRAIN - HAMSTRING, QUADRICEPS and ADDUCTORS

The thigh essentially has three compartments: The anterior (front) Quadriceps (group of four muscles); The posterior (back) Hamstrings (group of three muscles); and the medial (inside) Adductors (group of 4 muscles). The site of injury is usually indicated by the location of pain. Common sites tend to include the mid section of the quads, top of the hamstrings near to the buttocks or half way down the hamstrings toward the outer margin of the muscles. Strains are diagnosed according to severity of injury and are graded according to functional deficit.

Causes:

• Poor flexibility
• Insufficient exercise preparation i.e. at the start of a session
• Fatigue i.e. at the end of a training session
• Over-training
• Muscle imbalances between front and muscles

Symptoms:

Low grade strains tend to be characterized by a small twinge or tightness developing thought the muscle. This may result in the individual having to stop and stretch but could then allow them continue training. Grade 2 strains will result in discontinued participation and a rehab period of 2-4 weeks pain will sometimes occur during normal activity. Grade 3 strains are usually a significant rupture of the muscle with continued exercise impossible. Pain will usually be experienced at rest and function will be hindered severely. Grade 3 strains will usually take anything from 6 weeks to 3 months to rehabilitate. This grading system can be used to grade ant muscle injury.

Treatment:

Acutely, or directly after the injury, the patient should apply ice for 15 minutes with the leg elevated above the level of the hip to allow for drainage. Ice should then be re-applied every hour for 10 minutes. The ice should provide adequate pain relief, if one finds pain is unrelenting then a medical or healthcare professional should be consulted.

Physiotherapy would typically consist of mobilization and stretching techniques. Ultrasound and interferential help optimize healing and therefore hasten healing times. Strengthening is very important in re-establishing structural integrity within the muscle, and this should be followed up with sport or functional specific drills to enable the patient to return to their chosen activity/sport/occupation. Knowledge of preventative techniques will also be provided to help avoid future injuries.