hamstring woes

I've got a chronic hamstring problem too. Usually I'll just take a few extra days off, and when I do run I make sure the miles aren't intense. Usually the tighteness dissapates to a tolerable level where I can ignore the pull until it eventually just goes away...

You just have to be careful that your strain doesn't become a tear, which is obviously much more serious. I ran a marathon on a tender hammy and was sidelined for 7 weeks afterward. If you have difficulties walking without a hitch then this is not a good sign. See a doctor.

And load up on the ibuprofin (or whatever you use) to bring down the swelling! Hope this helps.

Edited by fromer 2004-11-06 9:12 AM

Tell me about it. I'm currently in the 1st of 6 weeks off running for a ITBS/piriformis/hamstring injury. It would be nice to not have to sleep on an ice pack. Most muscle injuries need 6 weeks off the offending activity. there is a reason NFL players are sidelined so long with hamstring injuries. Ice, stretch NSAIDs. Massage may help. -Good luck...S PS find another doctor

Edited by sue7013 2004-11-06 4:00 PM

I don't know if you've tried it before, but I'm a HUGE advocate of ART (Active Release Technique).

Check out Active Release Technique for more information and to find a certified provider in your area.

I had IT band trouble last year and 4 sessions with my ART doctor and it was cleared up!

Hey Steve, can you say more about ur ART sessions? How long was it? How much did it cost? I'm having a lingering IT band problem thats been around for the last 3 mths, and no amount of rest or Ibuprofen seems to get rid of it for good. I'll try anything that allows me to run pain free again.

Thanks in advance.

Do you do any strength training with your legs? I injured my shoulder 20 yrs ago. I had the rotator cuff rebuilt. If I don't do light weights or pushups and keep my shoulder strong I feel it in the pool after a few laps. Just a suggestion, don't know if it will help.

Mike

ART is great. If you haven't tried it...definately go. Insurance paid most of it, but it depends on the doc. Typically w/o insurance it's about $150/$200 per 1-1/2 hour session. ART is always at Ironman Hawaii and has been touted by pros as the best advancement in sports medicine.

Also, don't forget about rolling your IT bands across a large (6-8") styrofoam cylinder on the floor. It hurst at first but really works. See your local Personal Trainer to have him show you the correct way to do it.

Try to stay away from the Ibuprofen or naproxen as much as possible. It may alleviate the pain a bit, but it actually prolongs the healing process not to mention the havoc it wrecks on your stomach lining and intestines.