Hamstring soreness is one of the more common problems encountered when teaching and practicing yoga. Typically the pain is present during forward bends such as Uttanasana or Paschimottanasana and is located in the region of the sitting bones (ischial tuberosities) where the hamstrings originate. This soreness can become chronic because continuing to stretch the hams in the same manner aggravates the problem. It’s a bit like a bald spot on a tire that gets worse with time unless we balance our wheels. This Scientific Key illustrates a simple three-step process that can be effective in breaking the cycle of sore hamstrings by balancing and distributing the stretch during forward bends. Basic science: The hamstrings are located on the backs of the thighs. They are composed of three muscles. On the inside of the thighs are the semimembranosus and semitendinosus. On the outside are the biceps femoris. The hamstrings originate from the ischial tuberosity (except the short head of the biceps, which originates from the femur). They insert on the lower leg. Contracting the hamstrings bends the knee. 1) Biceps femoris (long head) 2) Semitendinosus 3) Semimembranosus 4) Biceps femoris (short head)

© 2007 Raymond A. Long MD.

Sore hamstrings: Typically, when practicing forward bends such as Uttanasana we straighten the knees and then bend forward. This focuses much of the stretch on the region of the proximal hamstrings at their origin from the ischial tuberosity. If overstretching occurs and we continue to bend forward in this way, the result can be sore hamstrings that do not get better on their own. This is especially true if we are practicing repetitive forward bends, as with the Vinyasa Flow series. This soreness is usually located in the region of the sitting bones. Breaking the cycle: Overstretching muscles can create micro-tears in the substance of the muscle, resulting in an area of weakness. Things in nature tend to follow the path of least resistance. This means that, when we stretch a muscle in which a region has been injured, the stretch tends to focus in that region and aggravate the injury—a bit like a bald spot on a tire. In order to heal the sore area of the muscle, it is necessary to temporarily alter the method of stretching in order to distribute the stretch to a healthy region of the muscle and give the injured part an opportunity to heal.

The following movements aid to distribute the stretch along the length of the hamstrings:

1) Bending the knees releases the hamstrings at their insertions on the lower legs.

2) Activating the psoas muscle tilts the pelvis forward and stabilizes the origin of the hamstrings. This action draws the torso towards the thighs. (Please click here to learn how to activate the psoas.)

3) Maintaining the pelvis tilting forward and gently contracting the quadriceps to gradually straighten the knees focuses the stretch on the distal regions of the hamstrings and away from the overstretched area at the origin. Contracting the quadriceps also results in “reciprocal inhibition” of the hamstrings and causes them to relax into the stretch. (For more on reciprocal inhibition, please click here.)


© 2007 Raymond A. Long MD.

It is best to build this new method of stretching over time. If pain occurs in the hamstrings, one should back off on the stretch by slightly bending the knees.

• If you are new to integrating anatomy into your practice, remember that it is not necessary to memorize this technique on your first pass. Begin by enjoying the beautiful images of the body in yoga. This alone will awaken your brain's awareness of the anatomy during your practice.  Return at a later date for a closer look and then gently go through the motions illustrated above as you practice. Then leave it. Your unconscious mind will create new circuitry while you rest. Enjoy this process and when you return to the mat, you will be surprised at how easily you access this technique.

Namasté,

Ray and Chris

Note:
Always practice under the guidance of an experienced instructor.
Always, in your particular case, consult your health care provider before practicing yoga or any other exercise program.

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