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Proximal Hamstring Ruptures: Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Return to Play

  • SPORTS INJURIES AND REHABILITATION: GETTING ATHLETES BACK TO PLAY (R GALLO, SECTION EDITOR)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To assess the current literature surrounding the treatment and rehabilitation strategies surrounding proximal hamstring rupture injuries, along with comparative return to sport and patient-reported outcomes.

Recent Findings

A high degree of variability exists in protective and rehabilitation strategies after both operative and non-operative proximal hamstring rupture management. Acceptable outcomes after both operative and non-operative management have been observed but may vary greatly with injury chronicity, severity, and surgical technique.

Summary

The high complication rates observed after surgical treatment, along with poor functional outcomes that may occur in the setting of non-operative treatment or delayed surgery, highlight the importance of early injury evaluation and careful patient selection. Further high-quality research elucidating clearer indications for early operative management and an optimized and standardized rehabilitation protocols may improve outcomes and return to sport experience and metrics for individuals sustaining proximal hamstring ruptures.

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Correspondence to Steven B. Cohen.

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Austin Looney, Hannah Day, Spencer Comfort, and Stiles Donaldson declare that they have no conflict of interest. Stephen Cohen reports consulting fees from Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc., non-financial support from Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc., and Boston Scientific Corp., and educational fees from Liberty Surgical.

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Looney, A.M., Day, H.K., Comfort, S.M. et al. Proximal Hamstring Ruptures: Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Return to Play. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med 16, 103–113 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-023-09821-7

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