With proper care and physical therapy, a mild hamstring injury will take 2-10 days to heal, while a severe injury can take up to 10 weeks. Full rehabilitation can take up to six months, depending upon the severity of the injury.
Hamstring injuries are more prevalent in older individuals and adolescents whose muscles and bones grow at different rates, but can occur at any age. Physical therapy is an essential component of the healing and rehabilitation process and has a variety of benefits that include:
- It’s non-invasive
- Eases pain and discomfort
- Maintains range of motion and flexibility
- Re-establishes muscle strength
- Retrains the body in how to move properly
- Rehabilitation if a surgical repair is required
Many people try to return to their regular activities too soon or place too much stress on the leg before the injury is sufficiently healed or full strength and mobility has been regained. It’s essential that patients exercise patience to prevent re-injury and making the condition worse.
