What are biomechanical factors contributing to hamstring strains?
In addition to just pure weak and fatigued hamstrings, we have found these dysfunctions associated with hamstring strains: • Poor core stability including lumbopelvic control and abdominal strength. The hamstrings and ab muscles help control the pelvis as your foot strikes the ground and your body needs to the absorb impact. • Hyperlordosis and anterior pelvic tilting. The hamstrings can become overstretched while they are trying to contract to control anterior pelvic movement and absorb impact forces if the pelvis is already too far in an anterior pelvic tilt. Also, if the pelvis is in an anterior pelvic tilt just prior to heel strike, the hamstrings can also become overstretched trying to decelerate the tibia in knee extension. • Tight hip flexors can cause an anterior pelvic tilt as well as reciprocally inhibit the hip extensor such as the Gluteus Maximus, thus requiring more work from the hamstrings while overstretched to extend the hip. • Weak Glutes, as stated above, can cause th
