Whether you’re sprinting on the field, running for the train, or bending down to pick something up, your hamstrings play a crucial role in powering your movement. A hamstring strain—a stretch or tear of one or more muscles in the back of the thigh—is a common injury that can be painful, limiting, and prone to recurrence if not treated properly.
The good news? With the right care, including physical therapy, most people recover fully and get back to their daily activities or sport stronger than ever.
Hamstring strains happen when the muscle is overloaded, often during high-speed activities or overstretching. This injury is particularly common in:
Runners and sprinters
Athletes in soccer, basketball, or football
Individuals with poor flexibility or muscle imbalances
People returning to activity too quickly without proper warm-up
There are three grades of hamstring strain:
Grade 1: Mild strain with minimal strength loss
Grade 2: Partial tear causing pain and swelling
Grade 3: Severe tear with complete loss of function
Depending on severity, symptoms may include:
Sudden sharp pain in the back of the thigh
Swelling or bruising in the area
Weakness or stiffness in the leg
Difficulty walking, bending, or straightening the knee
A popping or tearing sensation at the moment of injury
If you’re dealing with a hamstring injury, seeing a physical therapist near you is one of the smartest moves you can make. Physical therapy not only speeds up healing but also helps prevent future strains.
Here’s what a physical therapist in NYC or your local area will focus on:
✅ Pain reduction and inflammation control in the early phase
✅ Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises as healing begins
✅ Strengthening the hamstrings and surrounding muscles like glutes and core
✅ Neuromuscular training to restore balance, coordination, and proper mechanics
✅ A customized return-to-sport plan (if applicable) to avoid re-injury
While working with a PT near you is essential, these strategies can also support healing:
Rest the injured leg and avoid high-impact activity
Use ice for 15–20 minutes every few hours during acute pain
Perform prescribed stretches and mobility drills consistently
Gradually reintroduce strengthening exercises
Stay hydrated and prioritize protein-rich foods to aid muscle repair
The key to full recovery is a comprehensive rehab plan guided by a specialist. MotionSync makes it easy to find the best physical therapy near you, whether you're in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or greater NYC.
Get back to running, lifting, and living pain-free—your recovery starts now.