(HealthDay News) -- A hamstring injury can sideline an athlete or exercise buff for quite a while.

While anyone can pull a hamstring, some people are at greater risk of the injury. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this list:

• Young athletes who are still maturing.
• Many professional athletes, including runners, football players, skaters and soccer players.
• People who run or sprint for exercise.
• Dancers.
• Seniors who play sports or who take frequent walks.

-- Diana Kohnle