Hamstring Strain
A hamstring strain is a tear of the muscles at the back of the thigh, usually from sprinting or sudden acceleration. We grade the strain and guide a graded recovery restoring strength and a safe return to running at our Marple clinic.

Understanding Your Condition
A hamstring strain is a tear of the muscles at the back of the thigh, typically felt as a sudden pain or 'pull' during sprinting, acceleration or a sudden stretch. It's one of the most common injuries in running-based sport — and one of the most likely to recur if not managed well.
At Complete Recovery Physiotherapy in Marple, we grade your strain, settle the pain, and guide a graded, progressive recovery that rebuilds the muscle and returns you to running safely — so it doesn't keep tearing. Hamstrings need specific, progressive loading to return fully.

What You Feel
- Sudden pain or a 'pulling' sensation in the back of the thigh
- Pain when running, sprinting or bending the knee
- Tenderness and tightness along the hamstring
- Bruising in the back of the thigh
- Pain when stretching the hamstring
- Weakness when bending the knee against resistance
- A lump or gap in the muscle in more significant tears
- Pain that worsens with acceleration or speed
Common Causes
- Sudden acceleration or sprinting
- Inadequate warm-up before activity
- Returning to running too quickly after a previous strain
- Weakness and poor conditioning of the hamstrings
- Imbalance between the quads and hamstrings
- Sudden increases in training intensity or speed work
- Fatigue late in training or matches
- Poor running mechanics and technique
Who Physiotherapy Can Help
Hamstring strains affect runners, sprinters, footballers, rugby players and racket-sport players — particularly those involved in speed work. We help with fresh strains needing acute care and with the recurrent strains that follow a poorly-managed return.
If you felt a sudden pain in the back of your thigh during activity, or your hamstring keeps tearing when you sprint, we'll grade the strain and build a safe, progressive recovery.
Struggling with Hamstring Strain?
Book your assessment today. We'll find the root cause and start hands-on treatment in your first session.
Your Assessment
Your assessment grades your hamstring strain and screens for more serious problems such as a tendon avulsion. We palpate the muscle, test the hamstring against resistance, assess your flexibility and strength, and review how the injury happened.
Grading matters because it shapes your recovery timeline and when you can safely return to running. We'll explain your grade and plan clearly.
How We Treat It
Our hands-on treatment approach:
- Assessment to grade the strain and screen for serious injury
- Hands-on treatment to ease pain, swelling and tightness
- Gentle mobility and progressive hamstring loading
- Targeted strengthening including eccentric and running-specific work
- Advice on loading, warm-up and return to running
- A graded return to running, sprinting and sport
Expected Recovery
Recovery depends on the grade. Mild strains settle within 2–4 weeks, moderate strains within 4–8 weeks, and significant tears over 8–12 weeks or more. Hamstrings are particularly prone to recurrence, so a graded, progressive programme matters even more.
Rushing back is the leading cause of re-injury — which is why we rebuild strength, including eccentric and running-specific work, and test your readiness before clearing running. Most people return fully and stop the cycle of repeated strains with the right rehab.
Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
No GP referral needed. Direct access appointments available — often same-day or within a few days.
What Happens at Your First Appointment
Your first session is a 45-minute comprehensive assessment. We start by listening — understanding your symptoms, your history, and what you want to get back to. We then carry out a thorough hands-on physical examination to identify the root cause of your problem. You'll receive a clear explanation of what's going on, a personalised treatment plan, and hands-on treatment begins in that very first session. You leave knowing exactly what's wrong, what we'll do about it, and how long recovery will take.
What Should I Wear?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area we're treating. For knee, hip, or leg problems, shorts are ideal. For shoulder, neck, or back issues, a loose top or vest works well. You'll never be asked to undress beyond what's necessary for examination and treatment, and you'll always be treated with dignity and respect in our private treatment room.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and your goals. Many patients feel significant improvement within 3–6 sessions. Acute injuries often resolve faster, while long-standing or complex conditions may need more. We'll give you a clear treatment timeline at your first appointment — and we only ever recommend sessions you genuinely need. Our goal is to get you independent and pain-free as quickly as possible, not to keep you coming back.
Can I Claim Through Insurance?
Yes. We are recognised by most major health insurance providers including AXA, Vitality, Bupa, WPA, and Healix. We can bill your insurer directly so you don't need to pay upfront — simply bring your insurance authorisation number to your appointment. If you're not sure whether you're covered, call us and we'll help you check before you book.
Treated by a Qualified, Experienced Professional

Rob Wood
Head Physio & Clinic Owner
Meet Rob, founder of Complete Recovery Physiotherapy in Marple.
Hamstring Strain Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Complete Recovery Physiotherapy?
Accurate Grading
We grade your strain precisely so your recovery timeline is based on real severity — and you don't return to running too soon or too late.
Stop Recurrent Tears
Hamstrings recur more than any other muscle. We rebuild strength — including the eccentric work that prevents re-injury — so you stop the cycle of repeated tears.
Return-to-Running Testing
Before you run, we test your strength and running-specific capacity so you return genuinely ready and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Hands-On Plus Loading
Manual therapy to ease pain and tightness combined with a progressive strengthening programme — the combination that produces lasting recovery.
Same Physio Every Time
Continuity of care with a physio who knows your hamstring, your injury and your running goals throughout your recovery.
Free Parking in Marple
Easy visits at Bowden Hall with free parking right outside — important when walking is uncomfortable.
Related Conditions We Treat

Calf Strain
A calf strain is a tear of the calf muscle, usually from running or sudden acceleration. We grade the strain and guide a graded recovery restoring strength and a safe return to running at our Marple clinic.
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Groin Strain
A groin strain is a tear of the muscles on the inner thigh, usually from kicking, twisting or changing direction. We grade the strain and guide a graded recovery restoring strength and a safe return to sport at our Marple clinic.
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Running Injuries
Running injuries affect the knee, hip, leg and foot, usually from training errors or biomechanics. We assess the cause and guide a graded return to pain-free running at our Marple clinic.
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Hip Pain
Hip pain can come from the joint, the tendons, the muscles or the back — and the right treatment depends on the exact source. We assess precisely and rebuild strong, pain-free hip movement at our Marple clinic.
Learn MoreRelated Services

Physiotherapy
At Complete Recovery Physio, everything we do is built around high-quality physiotherapy. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with ongoing pain, or looking to move more freely, we're here to support you.
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Sports Physio
Whether you're a weekend warrior, a dedicated athlete, or someone who simply loves staying active, sports injuries can be incredibly frustrating. Our specialist sports physiotherapy service is designed to help you recover fully, safely, and as quickly as possible.
Learn MoreDon't Let Pain Hold You Back
Expert, hands-on physiotherapy in Marple. Free parking. Same-day and short-notice appointments often available.
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Book your assessment today and take the first step towards a pain-free, active life. Free parking at our Marple clinic.

