The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Hamstring \Ham"string`\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Hamstrung; p. pr.
   & vb. n. Hamstringing. See String.]
   To lame or disable by cutting the tendons of the ham or knee;
   to hough; hence, to cripple; to incapacitate; to disable.
   [1913 Webster]

         So have they hamstrung the valor of the subject by
         seeking to effeminate us all at home.    --Milton.
   [1913 Webster]