These two muscles form the bulk of the hamstrings and generate large forces between the pelvis to the medial aspect of the knee. Any biomechanical fault can be amplified via the hamstrings from postural issues (lower crossed) and sports injury to overload. These muscle can also be influenced by medial or lateral forces (valgus and varus) at the knee. The Semitendinosus is particularly involved with resisting valgus in its role as part of the Pes Anserine.
MUSCLE COMMENT
Injuries that can be closely associated with trigger points in the hamstrings include (Wallden)1.
- lumbar facet impingement (and associated sequelae such as spondylytic change / spondylolisthesis.)
- lumbar disc injury *
- lumbo-pelvic instability
- sacro-iliac joint dysfunction
- hip adduction / hypermobility syndrome
- degenerative joint disease (chronic manifestation)
- meniscal tear
- coronary ligament fibrosis
- medial collateral ligament strain / tear
- anterior cruciate ligament strain / tear
- patella tracking pathologies
- patella tendinopathy
- chronic compartment syndrome
- Osgood schlatter’s
- Achilles tendinopathy
- inversion sprain
- heel spur / traction apophysitits
- plantar fasciitis
- hallux valgus / bunion
How do you treat trigger these trigger points? We’d be delighted if you want to share your own best practice.
Wallden M, http://www.mattwallden.com/product/the-hamstring-insight-webinar