Beyond Eccentric Loading: Uncovering the Keys to Risk Reduction of Hamstring Strain Injuries
Abstract:
Hamstring strain injuries (HSI) are one of the most commonly occurring injuries and top causes of missed playing time that impact various patient populations. High re-injury rates of HSI, lingering symptoms, and prolonged recovery often make management a frustrating and challenging process for clinicians, yet HSI continuing education sessions remain sparse. While eccentric loading has become the cornerstone of HSI management, evidence now suggests consideration of exposure to sprinting and alternative extrinsic risk factors is warranted. This presentation will cover the latest empirical data, clinical recommendations and expert consensus to support the design of more effective HSI risk reduction plans.
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the most recent hamstring strain injury (HSI) epidemiology and incidence rates.
- Synthesize HSI management recommendations based on international clinical expert consensus and the literature related to rehab and return-to-play decisions.
- Consider alternative extrinsic modifiable risk factors, specifically as it relates to the importance of collaboration and teamwork between coaching and medical staffs as part of the HSI management plan.
- Integrate high-speed running and monitoring into the HSI risk reduction plan.
Level:
Advanced
Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention
Orthopedic Domain(s):
Domain 1: Medical Knowledge
Domain 3: Professional Practice
Keywords:
extrinsic factors; high-speed running; prevention
CEUs:
1.0 Category A
In order to earn your CEUs, you must watch the session video in its entirety, complete the assessment, and receive a certificate of completion. Your statement of credit, reflecting the total CEUs earned for on-demand sessions, will be uploaded to your NATA EducATe transcript in early November. The maximum CEUs to be awarded are: up to 20 CEUs for On-Demand Only Registrants; and up to 5 CEUs for In-Person Attendees (A statement of credit for 15 in-person CEUs will be issued separately.) CEUs will only be awarded for sessions that have a certificate of completion.
Course Expiration:
All sessions of the NATA 76th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by October 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CDT.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.
Andrea DiTrani Lobacz, PhD, ATC
Andrea DiTrani Lobacz, PhD, ATC is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Athletic Training within the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Dr. Lobacz completed a Bachelor of Science degree in athletic training at Marist College and obtained a Master of Science degree in athletic training from A.T. Still University – Arizona School of Health Sciences. In addition, she also earned a PhD in Biomechanics and Movement Science from the University of Delaware in 2017.
Dr. Lobacz’s research interests include neuromechanical maladaptations following hamstring strain injury, including altered sensations of tightness and proprioceptive deficits. Through her research she also aims to identify factors that may increase the risk of hamstring strain susceptibility, particularly how fatigue and competitive anxiety contribute to hamstring stiffness dysregulation. Prior to entering higher education, Dr. Lobacz spent 6+ years working clinically as a certified athletic trainer at the Division-I collegiate level, primarily with track and field athletes, which provided the base and motivation for her research efforts in the area of hamstring strain injuries.