When deep buttock pain points to a torn hamstring tendon
An orthopedic sports surgeon and a physical therapist on hamstring tears
Your hamstring muscles anchor high in the buttock, on the sitting bone. A sudden force can push the hip forward while the knee straightens. That motion can tear one or more of these tendons off the bone. You may feel a pop. Bruising may spread down the back of the thigh. Sitting, walking or climbing stairs may hurt far more than usual. [1, 2]
This injury differs from a mild pulled muscle. When a major tendon comes off, it can change your strength. You may need to talk about surgery early on. [1, 2]
Confirm what kind of tear it is
Your doctor will check where the pain and weakness are. An MRI can show if the tear is where the tendon attaches. It also shows how many tendons are involved and how far the torn ends have pulled back. Ask if the scan shows any other injury to the pelvis or hip. Tell your doctor about tingling that runs down the leg. Nerves close by may be affected. [1, 2]
Weigh your options before too much time goes by
A partial tear may be handled with careful, limited activity and therapy. The same can apply if your daily life puts less demand on the leg. A full tear of several tendons may do better with a repair. Surgery can get harder later, once the tendon pulls back and scar tissue forms. Ask what limits on walking and sitting to expect with each choice. [1, 2]
If you have the repair, follow the rules on bracing, putting weight on the leg and stretching. Stretching hard too soon can strain the repair. [1, 2]
Reasons to get seen sooner
What to ask your orthopedic team
- Has the tendon pulled off the sitting bone, or is this a muscle strain?
- How many tendons are involved, and how far have they moved?
- Would an early repair likely change how well my leg works?
Don't let a suspected tear wait
If a major tear where the tendon attaches is suspected, ask for an orthopedic review soon. [2]
Sources and further reading
- 1American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, hamstring muscle injuries
- 2University of Utah Health, hamstring tear and surgery
General education drawn from orthopedic sports surgery and physical therapy. A sore hamstring isn’t always torn loose. Care depends on how many tendons tore, where they sit and what you need to do day to day.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
