Proximal hamstring tendon avulsions involve a tear from the sit bone and may require surgery. Dr. Duff offers expert repair to restore strength and support full recovery.
Hamstring injuries are common in both athletes and active individuals. While many hamstring strains heal without surgery, proximal hamstring tendon avulsions, where the tendons tear off the sit bone, often require surgical repair.
Dr. Samuel Duff provides expert evaluation and surgical treatment for significant hamstring tears, helping patients acrross Australia return to strength and mobility.
The hamstrings are a group of three muscles that run down the back of the thigh. They connect the pelvis (ischium or sit bone) to just below the knee and play a key role in:
The proximal hamstring refers to the tendons that attach the hamstring muscles to the pelvis. These tendons are most commonly involved in major tears and avulsions.
A proximal hamstring tear often causes sharp buttock pain, bruising, and weakness after a sudden stretch. MRI is the preferred method for confirming the injury and planning treatment.
This type of injury typically occurs during a sudden, forceful stretch, such as a fall into a split or forward slide. Common symptoms include:
The best way to evaluate a suspected hamstring avulsion is with an MRI, which shows:
Surgery is typically advised if:
If the tear is partial or less severe, non-surgical care (physiotherapy, strengthening, and time) may be appropriate.
Hamstring tendon repair involves:
This restores the original tendon alignment and allows proper healing and function.
Risks of surgery include:
These risks are low in experienced hands. For the best results, early surgical intervention is recommended, ideally within the first few weeks after injury, before the tendon scars down or retracts further.
Patients are typically full weight bearing with crutches and can stop using them once stable.
If you’ve experienced a sharp injury to the back of the thigh and are struggling with sitting, walking, or sport, a proximal hamstring avulsion could be the cause.
Dr. Samuel Duff offers expert diagnosis and hamstring tendon repair surgery to patients across Perth and regional Western Australia.