We are often implementing hamstring rehabilitation programmes for our patients. But what if we were preventative about hamstring injuries as well?
Studies have shown that, during running gait, hamstring are under large stress in the terminal swing phase (before the transition to foot contact). During this phase they are contracting eccentrically (lengthening under tension) to absorb kinetic energy & slow the lower limb.
Therefore there is an established consensus in the literature that eccentric training is effective in the prevention of hamstring strains.
Why not give these hamstring bridge sliders a go? Make sure you maintain a neutral spine & glute tension - the idea is to slide your feet out evenly & smoothly to full range, with a slight pause in a fully contracted state (knees slightly bent) before relaxing & returning to the start point. This exercise can be used during hamstring rehabilitation, as well as for prevention of hamstring injury.
Are you concerned about your hamstrings? Suffer from ongoing hamstring injuries? Worried that your previous hamstring rehabilitation has been inadequate?
Contact us today and book an appointment for our range of treatments including sports massage in surrey.
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Dauty, M., Potiron-Josse, M., Rochcongar, P., 2003. Identification of previous hamstring muscle injury by isokinetic concentric and eccentric torque measurement in elite soccer player. Isokinetics & Exercise Science 11, 139–144.
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