Biceps Femoris Tendinopathy

What is Biceps Femoris Tendinopathy?

The Biceps Femoris muscle is one of the three hamstring muscles which form the back of the thigh. It is the only one of the three which attaches at its lower end, to the outer aspect of the back of the knee. The hamstring muscles as a group act to bend the knee and also to extend the hip (move the thigh backwards).

A tendinopathy is a degenerative, overuse injury of a tendon. Tendinopathy of any of the hamstring muscles is usually associated with a sudden increase in sprinting, especially accelerating and decelerating, as this places a large strain on the tendon. Tendinopathy can affect any of the three hamstrings, although Biceps Femoris is the most commonly affected.

Symptoms of Biceps Femoris Tendinopathy

• Pain at the back of the knee (usually towards the outside of the joint).
• Tenderness when feeling the tendon.
• Pain on bending the knee against resistance.
• Stretching the hamstrings may be uncomfortable.
• Range of motion into hip flexion may be reduced compared to the other side.

Treatment

• Rest from the aggravating activity.
• Application of ice as soon as possible and regularly for the first few days.
• Visit a sports injury specialist, who may:
• Use sports massage techniques to loosen the hamstrings.
• Use electrotherapy treatments such as ultrasound.
• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication.
• Advise on hamstring stretching and strengthening exercises.
• Eccentric strengthening exercises are particularly important.

Recommended Products:

• Cold therapy - Ice packs and wraps can be used to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Knee supports - These provide heat retention and compression to reduce swelling, improve muscle flexibility and encourage blood flow to aid healing.
• Resistance bands - are great for strengthening the hamstring muscles in the early stages.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Biceps Femoris Tendinopathy and other causes of knee pain.