If you pull your hamstring where does it hurt?

The hamstrings are a group of muscles at the back of the thigh. A strain can cause a sharp or pulling sensation when sprinting, jumping, bending the hip, or straightening the knee. Tenderness may remain in one spot or extend along the muscle, and bruising or weakness can develop later.

Pain in the back of the thigh can have other causes, including irritation from the lower back or a problem near the hip or knee. [Thigh Pain](/symptoms/thigh-pain/) is a useful guide to symptoms that need broader consideration.

Stop the activity that triggered the pain and avoid sprinting, deep stretching, or forceful massage while the area is acutely sore. Gentle walking may be reasonable if it does not increase pain. Use a comfortable position and follow personalised advice about cold therapy or pain relief.

Arrange assessment if walking remains difficult, bruising is spreading, weakness is marked, or symptoms are not settling. Rehabilitation often progresses from controlled movement to strengthening. [Exercise Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/exercise-therapy/) and [Sports Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/sports-physiotherapy/) can support that process.

Seek prompt care for a sudden severe pain, a noticeable gap or lump in the muscle, extensive bruising, or inability to bear weight. An assessment can distinguish a mild strain from a more significant tear or another injury.

Get urgent help if the leg becomes unusually swollen, pale, cold, numb, or weak, or if pain is severe and unexplained. Do not return to sport simply because the pain has briefly eased.

Ask: Which structure is injured? When can I begin strengthening? What movement should I avoid? How will readiness for running be checked? Would imaging, [PRP Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/prp-injection/), or a graded [Return-to-Sport Programme](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/return-to-sport-programme/) be appropriate for my injury?