How to treat a hamstring strain

[Nicholas]

Treating a hamstring strain can differ depending upon the severity of the injury. For a first degree strain, ice and resting it with some elevation is the best way to treat it. For a second degree strain, ice, rest, and elevation are also necessary. However, a second degree strain will take around two to three weeks to heal. A third degree strain should be treated the same as first and second degree strains but may take longer to heal, around three to six weeks. Crutches may be necessary for a third degree strain. Waiting until completely healed before athletics or exercise is the best way to insure that an injury will not recur.

[owendw]

Hiya
i realise its an old post but would really appreciate a response......
i was just wondering what you thought of compression in the treatment of hamstrings at any degree, either when back playing or prior to that in the early days of sustaining the injury.
thanks
owen

[Cannavaro]

I think compression at both pre and post injury stage is beneficial. Pre gives muscle support and possibly can help prevent the injury from occuring, post also gives support to the injured muscle and helps to reduce any swelling.

I used a compression band for 4 days after my Grade 2 strain and it helped me alot. I've also got compression shorts to return to training with.