If you’ve been dealing with a sharp, nagging pain in the back of your thigh, you might be dealing with hamstring tendonitis. This annoying and painful injury can make it difficult to tackle your regular workout. Stretching and bending your leg may further intensify any discomfort.
While rest and ice may provide temporary relief, many seek a more comprehensive approach to addressing this persistent issue. And this is exactly where chiropractic care comes in! So, in this article, we explore hamstring tendonitis and how chiropractic care can help.
What is Hamstring Tendonitis?
Hamstring tendonitis is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the tendons connecting the hamstring muscles to the pelvis, knee, or shin bones. This overuse injury typically occurs due to repetitive stress on the tendons, often resulting from activities that involve sudden stops, starts, or changes in direction.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the back of the thigh or knee
- Stiffness and reduced flexibility
- Discomfort that worsens with activity
- Tenderness when touching the affected area
Athletes in sports such as soccer, basketball, and track are particularly susceptible to hamstring tendonitis. However, it can affect anyone who engages in activities that place significant strain on the hamstring muscles.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to treating hamstring tendonitis. By focusing on the body’s musculoskeletal system and its impact on overall health, chiropractors can address both the symptoms and the underlying cause of this injury. Here are several ways chiropractic care can help!
1. Spinal Alignment and Posture Correction
Misalignments in the spine can contribute to muscle imbalances and altered biomechanics, potentially leading to hamstring tendonitis. Chiropractors can help improve posture and overall body mechanics through the use specialized techniques and adjustments. In turn, this promotes proper alignment and reduces stress on the hamstring tendons.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors often employ various soft tissue techniques to address muscle tension and adhesions that may be contributing to hamstring tendonitis. These may include:
- Myofascial release
- Active Release Technique (ART)
- Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization
These methods can help break down scar tissue, improve blood flow, and enhance flexibility in the affected area.
3. Gait Analysis and Orthotics
Abnormal walking or running patterns can place excessive stress on the hamstring tendons. However, a gait analysis can help identify any irregularities and recommend corrective measures. In some cases, custom orthotics may be prescribed to improve foot mechanics and reduce strain on the hamstrings.
4. Electrical Stimulation and Ultrasound Therapy
These modalities can reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and promote tissue healing in the affected area. Electrical stimulation helps to relax muscles and increase blood flow. Meanwhile, ultrasound therapy can penetrate deep into the tissues to reduce swelling and promote cellular repair.
5. Education on Proper Biomechanics
Chiropractors can teach their patients about proper body mechanics during daily activities and sports-specific movements. This education helps prevent future injuries by ensuring you understand how to move efficiently and safely.
By addressing hamstring tendonitis through these comprehensive approaches, chiropractic care offers a path toward pain relief and improved overall function and performance. At Keystone Chiropractic, your Plano chiropractor is here to help you get back to the activities you love. Book your appointment today!
