Almost a year ago, I tore my hamstring.  This injury can take a long time to heal, and I am still recovering.  In extreme cases, you will need surgery.  See a doctor to get the proper medical advice.

For lesser hamstring injuries, like mine, recommended physical treatment is:

• RICE

Rest.
Ice.
Compression.
Elevate.

• Some doctors recommend take anti-inflammatory painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) but warn of side effects.

• Stretch and strengthen your hamstring with exercises.  Below are some of my favorite stretches for my hamstrings and hips.

• Get support. Recovering from injury requires both physical and psychological resilience.  Although sports injury recovery focuses on physical rehabilitation, it’s also important to recognize the mental aspect.  Let’s face it, it is frustrating being injured! In fact, many athletes become depressed when they are injured.  Sports psychology consultants can give you techniques that have helped other athletes come back from injury.

• Work on mental skills.  There is strong evidence that you create muscle memory when you practice in your mind.  A consultant can show you how to do this most effectively so that you can still “practice” and become a better athlete.

Get support in maintaining your fitness and a positive attitude as you recover from injury.  Contact Summit Performance Consulting LLC at 561-325-8363 or Info@SummitPerformanceConsulting.com for a free consultation.