From the Research
Hamstring proximal rupture typically requires surgical repair for active individuals, especially for complete tears or those involving multiple tendons, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2024 1.
Treatment Overview
The treatment approach for hamstring proximal rupture depends on the severity of the injury and the patient's activity level.
- For active individuals with complete tears or multiple tendon involvement, surgical repair is often recommended.
- The procedure involves reattaching the torn tendon to the ischial tuberosity using suture anchors.
- Post-surgery, patients follow a rehabilitation protocol starting with protected weight-bearing using crutches for 2-6 weeks, followed by progressive strengthening exercises.
Conservative Management
For partial tears or in sedentary patients, conservative management may be appropriate, consisting of:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol)
- Physical therapy focusing on gentle stretching and progressive strengthening
- Pain management typically includes NSAIDs like ibuprofen (400-600mg three times daily) for 1-2 weeks
Return to Sports and Recovery
Complete recovery typically takes 3-6 months, with return to sports possible around 6 months post-surgery.
- Complications may include re-rupture, sciatic nerve irritation, and persistent weakness, making proper rehabilitation essential for optimal outcomes.
- A study in 2021 2 found that surgical repair can result in excellent outcomes, with a return to full, unrestricted activities by 6 months postoperative.
Alternative Treatments
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have also been shown to be effective in treating chronic proximal hamstring tendinopathy, with significant improvements in pain and functional outcomes 3.
- However, the most recent and highest quality study 1 prioritizes surgical repair for optimal outcomes in active individuals with complete tears or multiple tendon involvement.