Overview
Re-injury is common if you return too soon.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Pain in the back of the thigh
- Pain in the back of the thigh after sprinting or kicking
Less common
- Bruising
- Pop at injury
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayLarge bruise and can't walk.
See a doctor soonPain lasting weeks.
Causes
Sudden stretch.
Who is more likely to get it
- Sprinters
Diagnosis
A clinician examines.
The exam
Strength and tenderness.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- MRI: For severe tears.
Treatment
Rest then rebuild.
Self-care
- Rest from activities that hurt
- Ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day
- Raise the area when you can
- Gentle stretching as pain allows
- Strength exercises
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To prevent:
- Warm up
- Hamstring strengthening
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to a physical therapist, or a sports medicine doctor.
- A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.
Back to school, work, or sports
- School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
- Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.
Outlook
Most heal.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.