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Citation
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Saltzman EB, Levin JM, Dagher AMB, Messer M, Kimball R, Lohnes J, Mandelbaum BR, Williams RJ, Amendola A, Chiampas G, Lau BC. J. ISAKOS 2023; ePub(ePub): ePub. |
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Abstract
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OBJECTIVE: To report the injury prevention programs utilized by top-level female footballers competing internationally.
METHODS: An online survey was administered to physicians of the 24 competing national teams at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup. The survey included 4 sections regarding perceptions and practices concerning non-contact injuries: (1) risk factors, (2) screening tests and monitoring tools, (3) preventative strategies and (4) reflection on their World Cup experience.
RESULTS: Following responses from 54% of teams, the most common injuries encountered included muscle strains, ankle sprains, and ACL ruptures. The study also revealed the most important injury risk factors during the FIFA 2019 World Cup. Intrinsic risk factors include accumulated fatigue, previous injury, and strength endurance. Extrinsic risk factors include reduced recovery time between matches, congested match schedule, and number of club team matches played. The 5 most used tests for risk factors were flexibility, joint mobility, fitness, balance, and strength. Monitoring tools commonly used were subjective wellness, heart rate, minutes/matches played, and daily medical screening. Specific strategies to limit risk of ACL injury included the FIFA 11+ program and proprioception training.
CONCLUSION: The present study revealed multifactorial approaches to injury prevention strategies for women's national football teams at the FIFA 2019 World Cup. Challenges to injury prevention program implementation reflect time limitations, schedule uncertainties, and varying club team recommendations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: IV.
Language: en |