Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 7/16/2009

Question
Hi, I injured my hamstring about 2 and a half months ago and being so familiar with sports injuries I did the whole R.I.C.E program for the first 72 hours after and started immediately after the injury.  I gave the hamstring some time to heal and did some light active stretching when I could with no pain.  I'm now 2 and a half months after and I am still having problems with the hamstring.  Important to note is I have had ACL reconstruction on that leg using the semitendonosis.  The area of discomfort I'm feeling is on the inside of the hamstring (on the inside of my leg) just above the back of the knee.  I've gone for massage therapy and athletic physio and still I'm having trouble with it.  It only seems to give me trouble when i stretch it.  It feels like even a little stretch is pushing it past it's comfort point.  I want to get back to my sport but the way it feels makes me concerned that I will strain the muscle again.  I've done some strength training on it but it seems to fight me with I try and work the muscle.  Should i consult a sports doctor or do I just need to work on it a little more and give it some more time.  I have been told by my massage therapist that there is a lot of scar tissue in the muscle at the damage sight.  Any suggestions

Answer
I would suggest a chiropractor, one that utilizes soft tissue techniques, for the following reasons:
Firstly, there is clear indication of soft tissue injury.  A chiropractor that addresses the soft tissue component may do so by:  EMS, myofascial release, ART, low level laser, etc.  These treatments, coupled with an adjustment to the spine, may be just what is necessary to bring about the healing.