Focused shockwave therapy for Hamstring origin tendinopathy.
Hamstring origin tendinopathy causes pain where the hamstring tendons attach to the lower part of the pelvis, close to the sitting bone. Here is what to look out for, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available — including focused shockwave therapy.
What is hamstring origin tendinopathy?
Hamstring origin tendinopathy affects the proximal hamstring tendons, where the hamstring muscles attach to the pelvis.
It commonly causes pain around the lower buttock and may develop gradually in response to repeated loading of the hamstring tendons.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of hamstring origin tendinopathy include:
- Pain deep in the lower buttock, close to the sitting bone
- Pain when sitting for prolonged periods
- Pain during or after running
- Discomfort when sprinting, accelerating or changing direction
- Pain during activities that stretch or load the hamstring
- Stiffness or aching around the lower buttock
- Tenderness around the hamstring tendon attachment
- Reduced tolerance for sporting or physical activities
Symptoms may be more noticeable after periods of increased activity or following prolonged sitting.
Causes
Hamstring origin tendinopathy is generally associated with repeated or increased loading of the proximal hamstring tendons.
Factors that may contribute include:
- A sudden increase in running or sporting activity
- Sprinting, acceleration or repeated changes of direction
- Sports involving high-speed running
- Increased training volume or intensity
- Returning to sport too quickly after a period of reduced activity
- Reduced hamstring or lower-limb strength
- Inadequate recovery between demanding sessions
- Activities that repeatedly place the hamstring tendon under high load
The condition can develop gradually rather than following a single injury.
Diagnosis
Hamstring origin tendinopathy is usually diagnosed through a clinical assessment.
During a consultation, your clinician will discuss your symptoms, activity levels and medical history before assessing your hip, pelvis and hamstring.
They may assess:
- The location and nature of your pain
- Tenderness around the hamstring tendon attachment
- Hip and hamstring movement
- Hamstring and lower-limb strength
- Your walking, running or movement patterns where appropriate
- How your symptoms respond to different types of loading
Imaging is not always necessary. However, an ultrasound or MRI may sometimes be recommended if the diagnosis is unclear, or another condition needs to be ruled out.
If you're experiencing persistent pain around the lower buttock or hamstring, you can arrange a consultation with our Advanced Clinical Pharmacist to discuss your symptoms and have the affected area assessed.
Your Advanced Clinical Pharmacist can help identify the likely cause of your symptoms and discuss appropriate treatment options with you.
Treatment
Treatment for hamstring origin tendinopathy depends on your symptoms, how long you have experienced them and the demands you place on your hamstring.
Treatment may include:
- Activity modification: temporarily reducing or adapting activities that aggravate your symptoms
- Strengthening exercises: progressive loading of the hamstring tendon can help improve its capacity
- Rehabilitation: a structured programme can help you gradually return to running, sport and other activities
- Physiotherapy: an individualised rehabilitation programme can help manage symptoms and restore function
- Movement modification: adjusting activities that place excessive load on the tendon may help manage symptoms
- Pain relief: appropriate pain-relieving medication may help with symptoms; speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional if you're unsure what is suitable for you
- Focused Shockwave Therapy: may be considered for some people with persistent hamstring origin tendinopathy as part of a broader treatment plan
Focused Shockwave Therapy uses targeted acoustic waves to deliver treatment to the affected area. It may be considered for people with persistent hamstring origin tendinopathy, depending on their individual assessment and treatment needs.
Our Advanced Clinical Pharmacist can assess your symptoms and discuss whether Focused Shockwave Therapy may be appropriate for you as part of your treatment plan.
Prevention
While hamstring origin tendinopathy cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by managing how quickly you increase the load placed on your hamstring tendons.
Helpful measures include:
- Increase running and sporting activity gradually
- Avoid sudden increases in sprinting, running volume or training intensity
- Strengthen your hamstrings and lower-limb muscles regularly
- Allow adequate recovery between demanding sessions
- Build up gradually when returning to sport after a break or injury
- Include appropriate progression when preparing for high-speed running
- Pay attention to persistent pain rather than repeatedly training through it
- Maintain appropriate strength and mobility around the hip and lower limb
If you have persistent, severe or worsening pain around the buttock or hamstring, seek assessment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Book your shockwave assessment.
Start with a £55 initial specialist assessment, or book treatment directly if you already have a confirmed diagnosis.
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