Recovering from a hamstring injury
Lack of use, particularly if splinting, results in muscle shrinkage
and the formation of scar tissue where the tear is healing. Excessive scar tissue prevents healthy muscle function, as it doesn't stretch and move as normal muscle does..
To avoid these complications rehabilitation exercises need to begin early. After a few days, once the pain has subsided, you should start to do regular gentle hamstring stretches followed by a programme of gentle exercise, such as walking and cycling, and hamstring strengthening exercises. Always warm up before exercising and cool down and stretch afterwards. Stop if pain returns.
To avoid injuring yourself again, you should only return to a full level of activity when your hamstring muscles are strong enough. Re-introduce running only gradually. Your physiotherapist will be able to advise you about this and advise on a suitable graded exercise programme.
Re-injury is extremely common and is often due to avoidable premature return to sport by athletes desperate to get back to fitness. Sportsmen are highly motivated and are likely to have set personal goals for training, timing and performance. However, re-injury not only prolongs recovery, it also increases the risk of permanent damage.
What can I expect from rehabilitation?
- Control of pain and swelling and acceptable range of motion and flexibility.
- A gradual strengthening programme should follow.
- When strength has returned, a gradual return to the desired sport can be attempted. Full return is usually possible only after maximal flexibility and strength have been obtained.
- Depending on the severity of injury, full rehabilitation may take several months.
By the looks if he had scar tissue , it should of been removed before - looks like a blue to me - hope he gets back quickly , but by the looks it will be be several mths , going by the articles I've read.