What should you know about home remedies for a pulled hamstring?

The hamstrings are muscles at the back of the thigh. A strain can occur when muscle fibres are overstretched, often during sprinting, jumping or a sudden change of direction. Pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising or weakness may develop, and thigh pain can have other causes as well.

A mild injury may settle with protection and progressive rehabilitation, while a larger tear can need examination and imaging. Avoid interpreting the ability to walk as proof that the injury is minor.

During the early phase, reduce running, kicking and stretching that increases pain. Rest the leg in a comfortable position, use a wrapped cold pack for short periods, and consider gentle compression if it does not cause numbness or increased pain. Elevate the leg when swelling is present.

As walking becomes easier, gentle pain-limited movement can prevent stiffness. Progress should include strengthening and control work before fast running. A physiotherapist can guide [Exercise Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/exercise-therapy/) and a staged [Return-to-Sport Programme](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/return-to-sport-programme/). [Sports Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/sports-physiotherapy/) may help with technique and recurrence prevention.

Arrange assessment for a loud pop, substantial bruising or swelling, a visible dip in the muscle, marked weakness, inability to walk normally or pain that is not improving. Seek urgent care for a cold or numb foot, rapidly increasing swelling or severe pain after major trauma.

Which grade of hamstring injury do I have? When can I begin strengthening and running? Do I need physiotherapy, imaging or another treatment such as [PRP Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/prp-injection/)?