Hamstring muscles

A group of muscles at the back of the thigh. The upper ends of the hamstring muscles are attached by tendons to the pelvis; the lower ends are attached by tendons called hamstrings to the tibia and fibula. The hamstring muscles bend the knee and swing the leg backwards from the thigh. Tearing of the hamstring muscles is common in sports. Repeated strenuous exercise may sprain the muscles (see overuse injury).

 

Online Medical Dictionary: Your essential reference to over 5000 medical terms.