Thigh support for hamstring strain.

[5210Runner]

I think I may have strained my hamstring a bit. I posted about it about a week ago so sorry for repeating myself!

It started nearly 2 weeks ago when after running I felt a pull in the back of my right thigh during cool down stretches. I have ran only twice since then. Last week, when I had bad fatigue in my legs so struggled.

Since then I've felt a pull and slight discomfort in my hamstring when walking and bending down. Today I decided to go for a run as it didn't feel too bad. But I had to take it very slow as trying to run any faster made my hamstring feel tight and a bit sore. I managed 2 miles but had to stop and walk a few times and do some hamstring stretches along the way.

I'm wondering if a thigh support would help at all. And where I can get one as I've looked and shops only seem to sell ankle and knee supports.

[Sadie-runs Graduate10]

Sorry to hear this 🙁. I had a hamstring strain just after graduating C25K and was really annoying as I was just getting into the swing of a regular running routine!

They key thing with a hamstring (or calf for that matter) strain is to NOT run. Running could make it worse and a mild strain could turn into a full-on tear, putting you out for much longer. I am not a physio, so unsure if any kind of support would help (and I am pretty sure there are no such things as thigh supports tbh). If in doubt, always consult with a sports physio.

Ice really helps with strains. Ice the area 3-4 times a day. Don’t stretch too vigorously - that will not help. Gentle stretching (or even better) a sports massage, when the pain is really easing off, is okay. And don’t try and run through this kind of injury. Rest up for a while, give the muscle time to heal! If it is a mild strain it will heal in no time with rest. 👍

Injuries happen to the best of us! It’s how you deal with them that counts. 😁 All the best for a speedy recovery. 🤞

[Hidden]

You need to take a break from running and let the hamstring repair.

Light stretches and pain relief would be good.

[5210Runner in reply to Hidden]

How will I know when it is safe to return to running? Sometimes my hamstring feels absolutely fine like this morning, which is why I attempted a run. It was only as I started running that I realised it wasn't ok.

[Hidden in reply to 5210Runner]

Rest it for a week or two then try running or even a brisk walk, if you still hurt rest it for longer.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate10]

I think the most helpful would be a physio appointment. You can ask your GP and wait or £40 or so should get you a consultation and you can get an actual diagnosis, along with the correct advice and exercises to help yourself going forward 👍🏻

[5210Runner]

I'm a bit reluctant to see a physio because of the cost. And I'm not sure my GP would want to see me because I only have a slight hamstring strain?

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate10]

Please do rest up for a while and do as Sadie suggests. Running while there is any pain may lead to further injury.

Better to take a bit of time our now, the runs will wait.

Take care. x