What is Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy?

What is Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy?

Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (PHT) is when the hamstring tendon, which is attached directly to the ischial tuberosity (sit bone), becomes strained due to repetitive overloading on the tendon.

This results in the tendon becoming inflamed, comprising the structure of the tendon, and causing the pain and weakness which is experienced in PHT.

How can Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy occur?

Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy occurs most commonly during excessive, high energy training which is ramped up too quickly with possible insufficient recovery time between training periods.

This commonly occurs in activities such as:

• Running
• Football
• Hockey

It also is more likely to occur in people who are starting a new activity or a sport that has not been performed for a significant period of time.

What are the main symptoms of Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy?

As reported by 'Complete Injections', the main symptoms of a proximal hamstring tendinopathy include:

• A sharp or deep aching pain located deep to the buttock over the sitting bone
• Pain which is made worse with prolonged sitting, standing after sitting, walking and exercise
• Latent pain deep to the buttock after exercise which can persist into the next day
• Pain that gradually increases after starting a new activity, often without trauma
• Pain when stretching your hamstring muscles

Understanding your PHT pain:

The anatomy of the tendon:

There are 3 muscles forming the hamstrings: biceps femoris, semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles.

These muscles then attach to the ischial tuberosity (sit bone), via a short tendon.

The hamstrings most important role is facilitating the extension in the knee and hip.

The area affected by proximal hamstring tuberosity is this ‘junction’ between the tendons and the ischial tuberosity.

What can help with Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy?

Undoubtedly, if you find yourself in a lot of pain and discomfort from PHT you will be seeking management and treatment strategies.

Many people seek advice from physiotherapists who can help aid the recovery.

Many physiotherapists may recommend avoiding or modifying activities that cause pain (cycling or running), or avoid aggravating postures such as sitting on a hard surface.

This is where we can come in….

How can a tendinopathy cushion help reduce discomfort?

We all are faced with the necessity to sit down daily, whether it is to work, socialize, or relax.

As reported by the British heart Foundation, on average workers in England (of the working age) sit down for 9.5 hours a day.

So, are you comfy when sitting down? If not, a pressure relief cushion that can relieve symptoms of PHT can make a substantial difference to improving your quality of life.

Our Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy Sero Pressure Cushion is a pressure relieving cushion which helps avoid direct contact with a hard surface while sitting. The Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy Cushion can reduce further irritation of the PH tendon and help to relieve discomfort.