Hamstring Taping with KT Tape

Before applying KT Tape for hamstring pain, make sure your skin is clean, dry, and free of oils. Applying the tape in a relaxed position and using proper tension is crucial to get the best support for your hamstring strain or injury.

The hamstrings are the large set of powerful muscles that span the back of the thigh from the buttocks to the calves and serve to flex the knee and extend the hip. Strains involving micro-tears in the muscles, cramping, and tightness can be addressed using KT Tape for hamstring support, especially when applied early after injury. These injuries often heal very slowly and put the individual at risk for recurring injuries if not treated properly. Learning how to KT tape a hamstring can help relieve posterior thigh pain and speed recovery from pain.
 

Hamstring strains occur most often in active individuals and occurrence increases with age. Strains are not caused by contact, but rather by bursts of speed or an abrupt change in direction. Inadequate flexibility, lack of sufficient training prior to sport, muscle fatigue, poor form, and return to activity prior to complete healing of a prior injury are all potential causes of a hamstring injury. Hamstring strains occur most often in active individuals and occurrence increases with age. Strains are not caused by contact, but rather by bursts of speed or an abrupt change in direction. Inadequate flexibility, lack of sufficient training prior to sport, muscle fatigue and, poor form increase the risk of hamstring tear, especially during explosive movements. Returning to activity before full recovery also contributes to injury.

Those wondering how to apply KT Tape to the hamstring by yourself should begin with light activity and proper warm-up to reduce risk. If you're also dealing with shin pain, explore our guide on how to tape for shin splints to cover related leg injuries.

Use KT Tape to relax the injured muscles and increase circulation to the area, as well as provide significant pain relief*. Hamstring problems can be very painful and keep you off your feet for quite some time if not treated properly. Combine KT Tape with light progressive stretching, icing after activity, and appropriate rest in order to speed healing*.
Knowing how to KT tape hamstring correctly can reduce further pain and help you stay active during recovery. KT Tape is also helpful for athletes recovering from common sports injuries, see our article on common sports injuries for additional tips.

STRAIN SEVERITY GRADES:

• Grade I Strain: Mild discomfort, often no disability. Usually does not limit activity.
• Grade II Strain: Moderate discomfort, can limit ability to perform activities such as running and jumping. May have moderate swelling and bruising associated.
• Grade III Strain: Severe injury that can cause pain with walking. Often people complain of muscle spasm, swelling, and significant bruising.

KT tape application is an appropriate use for Grade I and II hamstring strains*. Seek professional medical evaluation for grade III strains and use KT Tape as part of a larger treatment plan*.

• How to Tape for IT Band (Hip) Pain
• How to Tape for Shin Splints Pain
• How to Tape for Posterior Shin Splints Pain
• How to Tape for Quads Pain
• How to Tape for Calf Pain
• How to Tape for Groin Pain
• How to Tape for Hip Flexor Pain
• How to Tape for Glutes Pain
• Also see how to use KT Tape for leg pain for more taping techniques across the lower body.

For additional resources, please visit the KT Tape Forum.

*NOT CLINICALLY PROVEN FOR ALL INJURIES.