Hamstring tendinopathy is a common injury that occurs when the tendons at the back of the thigh become inflamed. It can be a painful condition affecting both athletes and non-athletes alike. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to heal hamstring tendinopathy including chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy. These methods can significantly alleviate pain, restore function and promote healing.
Chiropractic Treatment:
Chiropractic treatment involves the manipulation of the body’s joints and muscles to relieve pain and improve movement. A skilled chiropractor can help patients relieve pain in the hamstrings which can decrease inflammation, enhance flexibility and promote tissue repair. This is a great option when natural healing of hamstring tendinopathy is not possible. In particular, chiropractic treatment can help to address issues with the surrounding joints and muscles that may be causing the tendinopathy. This can include spinal adjustments to improve alignment as well as manual treatment and exercises to improve strength and flexibility.
Physiotherapy:
Physiotherapy is a non-invasive treatment approach that focuses on the restoration of movement and the reduction of pain. This treatment may include a variety of interventions such as stretching, manual therapy, massage and exercises. In particular, physiotherapy exercises can help to strengthen the muscles around the hamstring tendons, allowing for improved function and reduced pain. Additionally, exercises aimed at the core, glutes, and other adjacent muscle groups can help reduce strain on the hamstring tendons.
Rest and Ice:
Rest and ice can help to decrease inflammation and pain associated with hamstring tendinopathy. Patients should avoid activities that directly stress the tendons and focus on rest and recovery. For pain relief, they can apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain levels in the tendon.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications:
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, are a type of medication that can be used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Patients can take these medications with a doctor’s prescription. These medications can be effective in helping to control pain and restore function. However, it is important to always follow a doctor’s advice when taking medication.
Surgery:
In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair severe hamstring tendon injuries. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases that have not responded to other treatments. A surgeon will typically evaluate the patient’s condition and create an individualized plan that takes into account the severity of the injury and recovery goals.
Overall, the healing of hamstring tendinopathy depends on the severity of the injury, the patient’s condition, and their goals for recovery. Both chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy can be effective treatments for reducing pain, improving function, and promoting healing. The best treatments for hamstring tendinopathy are individualized, therefore it is important to ask for help with recovery. It is essential to work with a trained healthcare professional to create an individualized treatment plan that meets the patient’s needs and goals. With proper care, most patients with hamstring tendinopathy can regain their mobility and return to their normal daily activities.
