Hamstring injuries: risk assessment and injury prevention.

INTRODUCTION: Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries associated with sports participation. The aim of this review is to outline identified risk factors and examine preventative strategies for reducing the occurrence of this form of injury.

METHODS: An electronic search of Medline and SCOPUS was carried out for key words related to the area.

RESULTS: A number of risk factors, including both intrinsic and modifiable, were identified. Important aspects of an exercise programme were then outlined based on these risk factors.

CONCLUSION: A programme specifically designed to reduce the risk of hamstring injury by taking a strategised approach to exercise prescription may reduce the risk of hamstring injury. However, further research is required to determine the optimal programme for reducing the risk of injury.