In plain language
An injury to posterior thigh muscle or tendon ranges from minor fiber damage to complete tearing.
Clinical Significance & Management
Distinguish muscle injury from proximal tendon avulsion, which may need surgery.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Sudden posterior thigh pain, tenderness, bruising or weakness.
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Sprinting, kicking or forceful stretch; fatigue and prior injury increase risk.
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
History and strength examination; MRI for suspected major tear and X-ray for bony avulsion.
Treatment Options
Protect briefly, modify load and rebuild strength; assess severe avulsions with a specialist.
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Rehabilitation progression
Progress walking and light exercise to eccentric strength and acceleration according to function.
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Comfortable walking does not establish readiness for sprinting.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
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