HMS,TIP 2018 HSC 30a

An athlete running a 400-metre race experiences a hamstring strain in the sprint towards the finish line.

Explain the classification and management of the athlete’s injury. (8 marks)

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The hamstring strain is classified as an indirect, soft tissue, acute injury because the damage occurs from internal forces within the athlete’s body. This occurs because the hamstring muscle experiences excessive tension during the high-intensity sprint phase. The reason for this is the muscle cannot cope with the explosive demands, resulting in muscle fibres tearing. This demonstrates an indirect injury pattern where no external contact causes the damage.
Immediate management follows the RICER protocol because this approach minimises secondary tissue damage and inflammation. For example, rest involves immediately stopping activity to prevent further muscle tearing. Ice application for 15-20 minutes every hour helps to reduce pain, swelling and metabolic demands of damaged tissues. This leads to vasoconstriction that limits bleeding within the muscle. Compression using elastic bandaging creates external pressure that supports damaged tissues and reduces swelling. Consequently, elevation of the injured leg above heart level facilitates venous return and reduces fluid accumulation.
Referral to medical professionals is essential because accurate diagnosis determines appropriate treatment progression. This process ensures that the severity of the strain is properly assessed using clinical tests or imaging. For instance, a physiotherapist can determine if the injury is Grade 1 (mild), Grade 2 (moderate) or Grade 3 (severe) which then guides rehabilitation timeframes and return-to-play decisions. Therefore, proper medical assessment prevents complications and ensures safe recovery.

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The hamstring strain is classified as an indirect, soft tissue, acute injury because the damage occurs from internal forces within the athlete’s body. This occurs because the hamstring muscle experiences excessive tension during the high-intensity sprint phase. The reason for this is the muscle cannot cope with the explosive demands, resulting in muscle fibres tearing. This demonstrates an indirect injury pattern where no external contact causes the damage.
Immediate management follows the RICER protocol because this approach minimises secondary tissue damage and inflammation. For example, rest involves immediately stopping activity to prevent further muscle tearing. Ice application for 15-20 minutes every hour helps to reduce pain, swelling and metabolic demands of damaged tissues. This leads to vasoconstriction that limits bleeding within the muscle. Compression using elastic bandaging creates external pressure that supports damaged tissues and reduces swelling. Consequently, elevation of the injured leg above heart level facilitates venous return and reduces fluid accumulation.
Referral to medical professionals is essential because accurate diagnosis determines appropriate treatment progression. This process ensures that the severity of the strain is properly assessed using clinical tests or imaging. For instance, a physiotherapist can determine if the injury is Grade 1 (mild), Grade 2 (moderate) or Grade 3 (severe) which then guides rehabilitation timeframes and return-to-play decisions. Therefore, proper medical assessment prevents complications and ensures safe recovery.

♦♦ Mean mark 55%.