Studies have shown strong hamstrings may help prevent sport-related injuries. Therefore, it is important for athletes to incorporate hamstring strength and endurance exercises into their physical fitness program. Simply put, hamstrings help create stability in the knee. Strong hamstrings can help reduce the stress placed on the ACL and hopefully lower the risk of a tear or other related injury. Dr. Andrew Riddle, orthopedic surgeon and Cartersville Canes team physician, explains this is “especially important for female athletes as they are more susceptible to ACL tears.”
Expert Tip: Walking or running in the sand can help strengthen hamstrings.
For more information about injury prevention, please visit American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine
Sources
Golant MD, Alexander, Jiang MD, Kevin. “Strong Hamstrings May Prevent Injury.” In Motion (2016) : Cover. Web Publication.
This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.