A hamstring injury can involve a tear or strain to the tendons or large muscles at the back of the thigh. There are three muscles in this area, any of which can experience an injury that may require an MRI scan to determine its severity. MRI findings are used not necessarily to confirm the presence of a hamstring injury, but to determine whether there is a partial or full thickness tear that needs medical attention.
A partial thickness injury will often not require surgery, but a full tear might. Your doctor may order an MRI scan to determine the best course of action and help you return to normal leg function as quickly as possible.
An MRI machine uses a large magnet and radio waves to take images of both soft and hard tissues within the body — in this case, your thigh. MRIs are non-invasive, so there are no risk factors associated with ionising radiation, and no recovery period as there would be with exploratory surgery.
Because there are three muscles at the back of the thigh, an MRI can capture images of all of them simultaneously, along with the surrounding ligaments and tendons. MRIs also do not make contact with your muscles, which is particularly important given how tender hamstring injuries can be.
Your doctor might refer you for a Hamstring Injury MRI if your symptoms point to an injury. There are three grades of hamstring injury:
* Grade 1 (mild hamstring strain)
Usually presents as sudden pain and tenderness at the back of the thigh, which may make it painful to move the leg.
* Grade 2 (partial hamstring tear)
Typically more painful and tender, often accompanied by bruising and swelling at the back of the thigh.
* Grade 3 (severe hamstring tear)
Usually very painful, swollen, tender, and bruised, making it difficult to bear weight or walk.
Most hamstring strains can be managed at home, but grade 2 and 3 injuries may require medical attention. An MRI scan is often the first step in determining the best treatment plan.
Preparing for a Hamstring Injury MRI is generally straightforward. Depending on the grade of your injury, you may be fast-tracked into your scan, leaving little time to prepare.
If you do have time, the key things to remember are: the MRI machine is a large magnet, so all metal must be removed beforehand — including jewellery, hearing aids, and piercings. Leave as much as possible at home. Inform your doctor of any metal medical devices such as pacemakers, and of any previous surgeries, as pins or plates may affect whether the scan is safe for you.
Most MRI scans do not require restrictions on eating or drinking, though this can vary between hospitals. Your doctor will provide specific guidelines ahead of your appointment.
Upon arrival, you will be checked in and taken to a change room where you will put on the provided clothing and remove any remaining metal items — including keys, phone, jewellery, and hearing aids. These will be kept safely while you are in the scanner.
Once ready, you will be taken to the scanner and asked to lie down on the bed. The technician will position your leg to get the best results, and you will need to remain as still as possible throughout. If you feel too uncomfortable to stay still, let your radiologist know — they may be able to reposition you or use foam blocks to support your leg.
The machine can be quite loud, so headphones and a choice of music will be provided. You can speak to your radiologist technician at any time during the 45 to 60 minute scan.
After the scan, you will be helped off the table and taken back to your belongings. Most MRI scans are outpatient procedures, so you will be able to leave straight away and await your results at home. Depending on the severity of your injury, your doctor may wish to speak with you immediately. If a sedative was administered, you may need to wait for it to wear off or arrange for someone to drive you home.
Images a larger scope
There are multiple muscles and ligaments in the thigh, and an MRI can capture all of these at once, giving your doctor a comprehensive view of the area.
Helps diagnose the grade of injury
An MRI gives your doctor a clear image of the extent of your hamstring injury, enabling accurate grading and more targeted treatment.
Informs your treatment plan
Once your doctor has reviewed the scan, they will be able to advise whether you need surgery, rehabilitation, or other treatments.
Non-invasive and straightforward
MRI scans do not use radiation or invasive procedures, making them particularly well-suited for tender hamstring injuries.
There are very few risks associated with Hamstring Injury MRI scans, as they are non-invasive and do not use ionising radiation. However, as they use large magnetic forces, it is essential that all metal is disclosed to your doctor beforehand. Ferromagnetic objects such as jewellery can become dangerous projectiles in the MRI machine, and implants may also be displaced, so full disclosure is important.
Some patients may experience feelings of claustrophobia during the scan. This can usually be managed with headphones, but if you are still feeling uncomfortable, your doctor may be able to provide a light sedative.
Your doctor might order a Hamstring Injury MRI if you are showing signs of a grade 2 or 3 injury, as these indicate a tear rather than a strain. The scan will show the severity and location of the tear, as well as the surrounding structures, allowing your doctor to tailor your treatment plan accordingly.
Most Hamstring Injury MRI scans take between 30 and 60 minutes, though some may take up to 90 minutes if movement during the scan results in blurry images that need to be retaken.