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    Voted by Peers as aTampa Top Doctors
    • Board Certified/Fellowship Trained
    • Member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
    • Specializes in Disorders of the Hips & Knees
    • 2013 and 2014 “Attending of the Year” University of South Florida Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
    • The Only surgeon offering a Lateral Total Knee Replacement in West Florida.
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  • Regain movement & strengthComplex Joint Reconstruction

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  • Diagnosis and Treatment of Malignant & Benign disorders of the musculoskeletal system Orthopedic Oncology

Muscle Strain of the Thigh

A hamstring strain is an excessive stretch or tearing of hamstring muscles which are located at the back of the thigh. It is a common injury particularly seen in athletes who participate in sports activities that requires running, jumping, and kicking. During growth spurt the bones grow faster than the muscles. As a result the muscle becomes tight and a sudden jump or stretch can tear the muscle away from its connection to the bone resulting in strain.

In the severe case of hamstring strain a tendon can also be torn away from its bony attachment, which is called an avulsion injury.

Hamstring strain is usually caused when a muscle is stretched beyond its limit. Some of the factors that increase the risks of developing muscle strain include tight muscles, muscle fatigue, muscle imbalance, athletic activities, poor running technique and insufficient warm-up.

A person who experiences a muscle strain in the thigh will have a sudden sharp pain in the affected muscle. Sometimes a popping or snapping sensation is felt in the back of the thigh as the muscle tears.. Other additional symptoms such as swelling, bruising and muscle weakness may be noticed.

Hamstring strain is diagnosed by physical examination and history. Some of the diagnostic tests such as X-ray and MRI scan may be required by the doctor to confirm the condition.

Treatment

Immediately following an injury and before being evaluated by a doctor, you should initiate the R.I.C.E. method of treatment.

  • Rest: Rest from the activity which caused the muscle strain. Crutches may be recommended to avoid putting weight on your legs
  • Ice: Ice packs applied to the injured area will help to control swelling and reduce pain. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes four times a day for several days. Never place ice directly over the skin
  • Compression: An elastic wrap or compression stocking applied to the injured area help to minimize the swelling
  • Elevation: Elevating the knee above heart level will also help to reduce swelling

Your doctor may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and inflammation. Once the pain has subsided your doctor may recommend physical therapy which involves range of motion exercises that include gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to regain strength which will help to speed up the recovery. These exercises should be carried out regularly as it helps to regain the flexibility and improve the restricted motion.

Surgery is very rarely performed in children with hamstring strain. Your doctor may recommend surgery only when the hamstring muscle is completely ruptured.

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Patient Testimonials

Patient Testimonails - David Cheong MD - Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Cheong is one of the best doctors we have ever had, and a real credit to OAWF and Mease Countryside Hospital. His skill and personality are impeccable and when we asked the nurses how they enjoyed working with Dr. Cheong, they couldn’t say enough about his skill and treatment of the patients and nursing staff.