Hamstring injuries have become an increasingly common problem in the Premier League, sidelining players for extended periods. With the demands of modern football growing, medical departments are working to understand why these injuries are becoming more severe and frequent.
Although the overall number of hamstring injuries has not dramatically increased, data shows that players are missing more time due to these issues. By game week 26 of the current season, hamstring injuries accounted for 24% of all injuries, a slight decrease from the previous season’s 26%. However, more injuries now lead to long-term absences, with over 50 cases this season keeping players out for more than 30 days.
Research tracking European football over two decades has shown that the rate of hamstring injuries has doubled, indicating a worrying trend. The combination of fixture congestion, intensified playing styles, and evolving physical demands contributes to the issue. High pressing, rapid acceleration and deceleration, and high defensive lines put additional stress on the hamstring. Sprinting plays a critical role in modern tactics, increasing the load on the muscle.
The impact of fixture congestion cannot be ignored. Players are operating on a cycle of playing and recovering with minimal rest. Additional match delays due to VAR decisions can cause muscles to cool down, increasing the risk of injury when play resumes. The physical intensity of training has also increased, further straining the hamstring.
A shift has also been observed in the type of injuries occurring. Traditionally, mild hamstring strains would heal quickly, but now more complex injuries involving the intramuscular tendon, particularly at the T-junction, are emerging. These injuries take longer to heal and carry a higher risk of recurrence. Stronger and faster players may be overloading their tendons, with their ability to generate force exceeding their ability to absorb it.
Efforts are being made to address this issue through specialized training and rehabilitation techniques. Research is being conducted on ways to strengthen tendons to help them withstand greater forces. Some specialists believe nerve flexibility in the leg plays a role in hamstring injuries, emphasizing the importance of neuromuscular coordination. Fatigue alters movement patterns, increasing the risk of injury during acceleration.
Accurate diagnosis remains a challenge. MRI scans provide static images that may not fully reveal the severity of certain injuries. Ultrasounds are sometimes used to assess nerve involvement, particularly in cases of recurring hamstring problems. Surgery is becoming a more common solution, with nerve preservation playing a crucial role in recovery.
The modern game’s intensity and workload are pushing players to their limits. Unless steps are taken to manage physical demands, the cycle of recurring hamstring injuries is likely to continue. Football authorities must consider the long-term effects of an overloaded schedule to protect both players and the quality of the sport.
