The condition
The hamstrings are the muscles on the back of the thigh. Their tendons attach to the "sit bone" (ischial tuberosity) at the bottom of the pelvis. A sudden forceful stretch, such as waterskiing or slipping into a split, can tear them off the bone, causing pain, bruising, weakness, and trouble sitting.
The surgery
Through an incision in the crease below the buttock (typically outpatient), the torn tendons are freed up and reattached to the bone with small anchors and sutures. The nearby sciatic nerve is protected and may be freed from scar tissue. Older tears may need a cadaver graft. The final plan is determined during surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Weight-bearing
- Touch-down weight with 2 crutches for ~4 weeks, then gradually more; crutches and brace are weaned between 6 and 8 weeks.
- Precautions
- A knee brace stops the knee from fully straightening for 4 weeks, then opens gradually. Sit reclined; avoid bending forward with a straight knee. No hamstring stretching.
- Daily life
- Desk work often within 2–3 weeks; prolonged sitting may be uncomfortable for months. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Running
- Typically 4–5 months, once strength allows.
- Sports
- Sprinting and sports no sooner than 6 months; full return typically 6–9 months.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients regain hamstring strength and return to running and sports. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, re-tear of the tendon, sciatic nerve irritation (numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot), discomfort with sitting for months, injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
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Before & after every surgery