THE CLINIC: Diagnosing a Hamstring Problem
Thu, 13 Sept. 2012 - 1:24 a.m. MT
Credit: ARA Staff - American Running Association
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QUESTION:
Every time I run a long distance I feel discomfort in my right hamstring. I want to increase my speed after six miles but cannot due to the pain. After a recent half-marathon during which I had hamstring pain from the midpoint of the race to the finish, I experienced pain in the gluteus maximus and right knee. What’s wrong? This has happened to me in the last five half-marathons I’ve run.
Sue Caldwell
Pipe Creek, TX
ANSWER:
This is a very common problem with several possible causes. It is an overuse problem with its root in a mechanical error. Are you a veteran runner or is this a relatively new sport for you? Training can be a factor. What is the time frame in which you’ve run all these half-marathons? Make sure you are allowing enough recovery time between races and hard workouts.
There is likely a weakness in the stabilizing muscles of your pelvis. This can lead to overuse of the hamstrings and adductors and cause strain or tendinitis in these groups. Another cause may be a dysfunctional sacroiliac joint (between your tailbone and hip). You will likely need to see a physical therapist to overcome the problem, whatever its cause. In the meantime, take time off from running, and crosstrain as long as it doesn’t hurt.
John Cianca, MD
Houston, TX
DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition.
The American Running Association (ARA) and its Clinic Advisory Board disclaims responsibility and shall have no liability for any consequences suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. ARA does not endorse specifically any test, treatment, or procedure mentioned on this site.
(RUNNING & FITNEWS® April/March 2006 • Volume 24, Number 2)
Every time I run a long distance I feel discomfort in my right hamstring. I want to increase my speed after six miles but cannot due to the pain. After a recent half-marathon during which I had hamstring pain from the midpoint of the race to the finish, I experienced pain in the gluteus maximus and right knee. What’s wrong? This has happened to me in the last five half-marathons I’ve run.
Sue Caldwell
Pipe Creek, TX
ANSWER:
This is a very common problem with several possible causes. It is an overuse problem with its root in a mechanical error. Are you a veteran runner or is this a relatively new sport for you? Training can be a factor. What is the time frame in which you’ve run all these half-marathons? Make sure you are allowing enough recovery time between races and hard workouts.
There is likely a weakness in the stabilizing muscles of your pelvis. This can lead to overuse of the hamstrings and adductors and cause strain or tendinitis in these groups. Another cause may be a dysfunctional sacroiliac joint (between your tailbone and hip). You will likely need to see a physical therapist to overcome the problem, whatever its cause. In the meantime, take time off from running, and crosstrain as long as it doesn’t hurt.
John Cianca, MD
Houston, TX
DISCLAIMER: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition.
The American Running Association (ARA) and its Clinic Advisory Board disclaims responsibility and shall have no liability for any consequences suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. ARA does not endorse specifically any test, treatment, or procedure mentioned on this site.
(RUNNING & FITNEWS® April/March 2006 • Volume 24, Number 2)
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