Hamstring injuries are among the most prevalent and troublesome injuries in athletes, particularly those engaged in sports that require high-speed movements such as sprinting, kicking, and rapid changes in direction. The hamstring muscles, which include the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus, are essential for powerful lower limb actions, and thus, any injury to these muscles can significantly impact an athlete's performance and recovery. These injuries often occur during eccentric muscle contractions, such as when the muscles lengthen rapidly under tension, as seen in running and sprinting. According to epidemiological studies, hamstring strains account for a substantial portion of sports-related injuries, with hamstring strains being the most commonly reported injury in disciplines such as football, soccer, rugby, and athletics. In professional football, for instance, hamstring injuries account for approximately 12% of all injuries and represent the most frequent muscle strain, underlining their significance in the context of athletic performance.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
25
Oral BCAA blend (leucine, isoleucine, valine), 10 g/day divided into two doses, pre- and post-training, for 6 weeks.
6-week structured program including isometric, eccentric, plyometric, and sprint-specific exercises.
Change in Hamstring Muscle Strength
Isometric knee flexion strength measured at 15° and 90° using the ForHealth Kit to assess change from baseline.
Time frame: Baseline, Mid-Rehabilitation (Week 3), Post-Rehabilitation (Week 6)
MRI Findings
MRI assessment of muscle healing, including reduction in edema and tear resolution.
Time frame: Baseline and Post-Rehabilitation (Week 6)
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