Question
Two years ago I pulled both hamstrings.   I did not manage the injuries properly at the time i.e. ice and gentle stretch and just continued with my life.   I am a fitness instructor - aerobics and yoga.   I am mostly doing ashtanga yoga at the moment and every so often the pain in my buttocks (origin of the hamstrings) is so bad I can barely forward bend.   Should I be working through this pain or completely relaxing?   Is there any treatment for this sort of scar tissue?  I would very much appreciate your advice.   Thank you.

Answer
Hi Lynne

This is a very good question. From what you're describing it does sound like an issue with scar tissue, so let's proceed on that assumption.

You want to maintain a high level of activity to promote blood flow and healing, so I don't see complete rest as the answer. The exception would be if you've actually reinjured the area with a new tear or pull, then you need ice and rest over the short term.

I have a couple of additional thoughts on rehabbing this.

1) The yoga should be good, but I wonder if substituting some Hatha or a restorative yoga class might help. Not sure, if it were me that's a question I'd ask an experienced yoga instructor to get some direction.

2) Sometimes intense massage can help break free some of these adhesions and promote healing and increased flexibility in that area. This would be a little beyond a "normal massage," and honestly hurts a bit when you're having it done. Look for someone who has expertise with deep tissue massage for rehabbing injuries. A PT clinic might know the name of somebody.

3) In terms of self-care, you might try a gizmo called "The Stick." It's sold in running stores and is self-massage tool that you can use to stimulate muscle relaxation and healing. They probably cost about $ 25 and you can use several times a day. I have a fragile right hamstring and use mine daily and I think it helps.


It's probably going to take time, patience and a combination of interventions to see improvement.

Hope this helps. Please let me know if you have any follow-up questions.

Barry

http://www.chronic-pain-alternatives.com