Clinical profile and rehabilitation of Left side Hamstring muscle, semitendinosus injury in a school-level rugby player in Sri Lanka: Case Report

In rugby union, hamstring injuries are common , particularly among backs who are involved in high-speed running. Clinical management and rehabilitation of an 18-year-old school-level rugby outside centre who sustained an acute left posterior thigh injury during a practice match is described in this study. During clinical examination it was revealed swelling, ecchymosis, focal tenderness, painful hip extension and knee flexion, and an antalgic gait. MRI

Findings: confirmed an isolated grade II proximal semitendinosus tear. The player was managed conservatively using initial protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation, followed by a structured, progressive eight-week rehabilitation programme. Isometric and strengthening exercises, lengthening exercises, eccentric Nordic hamstring exercises, running progression, agility, proprioception, plyometrics, and rugby-specific drills were included in rehabilitation. After 8 weeks, he achieved full pain-free range of motion, normal strength, maximal sprint speed, and completed high-intensity sport-specific activities. He was successfully cleared for full-contact rugby with a phased return to play.