Muscle · Leg · Hamstrings
Hamstring pain
Common at this spot
Ordered by how common, not by search volume.
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Hamstring tear
The back of the thigh pops mid-run and walking becomes hard
Get help right away ifCall emergency services or go to A&E if you heard a crack when it happened, if the injured part has changed shape, if it has turned blue or grey, or if it feels numb.
Why it happens
Something has been overstretched or torn — here, the hamstring at the back of the thigh. It happens when you overstretch or twist, and more easily if you did not warm up or it was already tired.
How it feels
- Pain, tenderness, or weakness
- Swelling or bruising
- Muscle cramping or spasms
- You cannot put weight on it or use it normally
How long it usually lasts
Most feel better after about 2 weeks. Avoid heavy exercise such as running for up to 8 weeks.
When to see a doctor
Get advice if severe pain is getting worse, if swelling or bruising is bad or worsening, if you cannot put weight on it or move it, or if you have a high temperature or feel shivery (that can mean infection).
Source: NHS (UK)
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Ischial bursitis
Sitting on a hard surface makes the sit bone hurt
Get help right away ifSee a doctor if you have a high temperature or feel shivery — that can mean infection.
Why it happens
The fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint becomes painful and swollen. It happens mostly at the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee — here, under the sitting bone.
How it feels
- A dull, constant ache
- Swelling and tenderness
- Worse when you move it or press on it
- The area feels warm and looks red
How long it usually lasts
It usually goes away in a few weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after 1 to 2 weeks of self-care or is getting worse, if you cannot move the joint, or if the pain is severe and sharp.
Source: NHS (UK)
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Hamstring tendinitis
The back of the thigh stays tight and hurts when stretched
Why it happens
A tendon swells after an injury — here, the hamstring tendon at the back of the thigh. It comes from sudden movements or repeated exercise such as running, jumping, or throwing, and from repeating the same motion with poor form or technique.
How it feels
- Pain in the tendon that gets worse when you move
- Trouble moving that joint
- A grating or crackling feeling when the tendon moves
- Swelling, sometimes with heat or redness
How long it usually lasts
Mild tendonitis should feel better within 2 to 3 weeks.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if it has not improved after a few weeks. Get urgent advice if the pain is severe or you think the tendon has ruptured.
Source: NHS (UK)
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Hamstring cramp
The back of the thigh seizes into a hard knot and hurts intensely
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Proximal hamstring tendinopathy
Under the buttock feels raw after long sitting or running