In today’s world, where technology is advancing by leaps and bounds, it is not surprising that it has also arrived in physiotherapy. Digital hamstring physiotherapy is emerging as an innovative and effective option for addressing injuries to this vital area of the body. In this article, we will explore how digital physiotherapy is being applied to hamstring injuries, specifically to the biceps femoris, and how telerehabilitation is transforming the way we recover.
Digital Physiotherapy for Hamstring Injuries: A New Approach
What Are the Hamstrings?
The hamstrings are a set of muscles found in the back of the thigh and play a crucial role in the stability and movement of the hip and knee. Because of their location and function, they are prone to injury, especially in athletes and active people.
What is Digital Physiotherapy?
Digital physiotherapy is an innovative modality that uses technology to provide treatment and follow-up care to patients. Through mobile applications and online platforms, physiotherapists can provide therapeutic exercises and stretches specific to hamstring injuries. This allows patients to access care from the comfort of their homes and at flexible times.
Digital Physiotherapy for Biceps Femoris
Within the hamstring muscles, the biceps femoris is particularly prone to injury. Digital physiotherapy has been shown to be highly effective in the treatment of these injuries. Tailored programmes can address specific problems, such as strengthening weakened muscles, improving flexibility and correcting posture to prevent future injuries.
Advantages of Digital Physiotherapy for Hamstrings
Flexible Access to Care: Digital physiotherapy allows patients to access treatments and exercises anytime, anywhere, eliminating geographical and scheduling barriers.
Precise Personalisation: Every hamstring injury is unique. With digital physiotherapy, physiotherapists can tailor exercises and recommendations precisely to address individual needs.
Immediate Feedback: Digital physiotherapy apps often provide real-time feedback on exercise technique. This helps patients maintain proper posture and avoid movements that may aggravate the injury.
Motivation and Engagement: The variety of exercises and tracking of achievements through technology keep patients motivated and engaged in their recovery process.
Simple Logging and Tracking: Keeping a detailed record of exercises performed and progress achieved is essential in physiotherapy. Digital physiotherapy automates this process, making monitoring and evaluation easy.
Hamstring Training Plan at Home
Now that we have seen that digital physiotherapy can be a potential tool for the treatment of hamstring injuries, we can suggest a training plan for your patients to work on their hamstrings at home.
Basic tips for your patients
Warm up: Warm up gently before starting the exercises to increase blood flow and prepare the muscles for the workout.
Pain: If you feel pain or discomfort during the exercises, stop immediately and consult your healthcare professional.
Progression: As you progress through the plan, gradually increase the intensity and duration of the exercises.
Rest: Be sure to include rest days to allow your muscles to recover.
6-Week Basic Therapeutic Exercise Plan
Week 1-2: Initial Rehabilitation Phase
Day 1: Flexibility and Mobility
Gentle hamstring stretches: Hold each stretch for 15-20 seconds, repeat 3 times on each leg.
Hip mobilisation: Perform circular hip movements to improve flexibility.
Day 2: Basic Strengthening
Isometric contractions: Perform 3 sets of 10 sustained isometric contractions for 5 seconds each.
Pelvic raises: 3 sets of 12 repetitions. Lie on your back, bend your knees and lift your pelvis off the floor, squeezing your glutes.
Week 3-4: Progressive Strengthening
Day 1: Resistance Strengthening
Leg press (non-weighted): 3 sets of 10 repetitions. Use a resistance band to create resistance during the movement.
Leg curls (non-weighted): 3 sets of 12 repetitions. Use a resistance band and perform the knee bend movement.
Day 2: Stability and Balance
Assisted Squats: 3 sets of 10 repetitions. Perform supported squats, maintaining proper posture.
Plank: Hold the plank position for 20-30 seconds, repeat 3 times.
Week 5-6: Advanced Strength Phase
Day 1: Intense Strengthening
Leg press (light weight): 3 sets of 8 repetitions. Use weights or water bottles for added resistance.
Leg curls (light weight): 3 sets of 10 reps. Use weights or resistance bands.
Day 2: Functional Exercises
Side steps with resistance band: 3 sets of 12 steps in each direction.
Reverse Lunges: 3 sets of 10 reps on each leg.
Conclusions
Digital physiotherapy and telerehabilitation are revolutionising the way we approach hamstring injuries. The combination of advanced technology and the expertise of physiotherapists allows for personalised and convenient care. The benefits range from flexible access to care to prevention of future injury. However, it is essential to remember that while these modalities are valuable, they must be complementary to traditional medical care and supervised by qualified professionals. Technology can be a powerful ally in hamstring injury recovery, but safety and communication with a physiotherapist remain paramount.