The Hamstrings are a group of three muscles located at the back of the thigh.
They are:
Biceps Femoris,
Semitendinosus and
Semimembranosus
All three Hamstring muscle originate at the Ischial Tuberosity (Sit bone) of the pelvis and wrap around from the back of the knee to attach onto the Tibia and Fibula bones of the lower leg.
These muscles, although smaller than the quadriceps group are powerful knee flexors and hip extensors. Crossing two joints makes them more prone to strains particularly in sports that involve sudden bursts of speed such as Football, Netball and Sprinting. Their main function is the push off phase from the back leg in running and walking. They then bend the knee so it can be brought through for the next step. Hamstrings often get tight from prolonged sitting and can then pull the pelvis out of alignment causing lower back pain. Regular stretching after being in-active can help.
Please watch this video on my Facebook page to see how to stretch these muscles. https://www.facebook.com/susanmartinsofttissuetherapy/videos/939309983177949/
Stretching of all the muscles involved is particularly useful after exercise as part of your cool-down.
If you need help and advice with any injury and want to talk it through, please feel free to contact me .