The Qatari and Dutch Hamstring Study Group aimed to investigate the relationship between initial clinical and MRI findings and the occurrence of hamstring reinjuries, utilising a comprehensive multi-centre dataset.
The recent publication identified two clinical findings and two MRI findings, and shorter return to play time, independently linked to a higher risk of hamstring reinjury.
Clinical Findings
- Discomfort during the active knee extension test
- A lower straight leg raise angle on the injured leg
MRI Findings
- Reduced anteroposterior edema
- Musculotendinous junction involvement
Return to Play Time
Longer time to RTP decreased the relative risk of 12-month reinjury; specifically, reinjury risk decreased by 1.5% per day of delayed return to full unrestricted training.
These insights can help clinicians identify patients at greater risk of reinjury after an acute hamstring injury.
Reference
Zein MI, Mokkenstorm MJK, Cardinale M, et al. Baseline clinical and MRI risk factors for hamstring reinjury showing the value of performing baseline MRI and delaying return to play: a multicentre, prospective cohort of 330 acute hamstring injuries. British Journal of Sports Medicine Published Online First: 10 May 2024. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107878