Determinants of return to play following musculoskeletal injuries among football players

This study evaluated the location, pattern, and distribution of MSI among semi-professional football players, focusing on injury characteristics and RTP duration. It explored factors affecting RTP, including injury location, pattern, and the influence of family and football team support, identifying key determinants of RTP following MSI.This study evaluated the location, pattern, and distribution of MSI among semi-professional football players, focusing on injury characteristics and RTP duration. It explored factors affecting RTP, including injury location, pattern, and the influence of family and football team support, identifying key determinants of RTP following MSI.

This cross-sectional study comprised 109 male semi-professional football players randomly selected based on their playing positions. Participants' injury-related questions and RTP duration of injuries were obtained through a structured questionnaire adapted from the recommendations outlined in the FIFA Medical Assessment and Research Centre (F-MARC) consensus on definitions and data collection procedures in studies of football injuries. Pearson’s Chi-square test and spearman’s rank correlation determined the association between the variables.

Participants had a mean age of 24.10 ± 4.52 years and sustained a total of 124 MSI in different locations. Most injuries were sustained in the ankles and feet (25.8%), knees (21.8%), and the hip and thigh region (14.5%). Sprain (32.2%), dislocation (28.2%) and strain (22.6%) were the commonest patterns of injury. The RTP duration had a significant weak association with the location (X² = 37.697, p = 0.002, φ_c = 0.390) and pattern of injury (X² = 72.954, p = 0.000, φ_c = 0.542). Football team support had a significant association RTP duration (rs = -0.254, p = 0.004).

The study found increased MSI in the ankles, feet, knees, hips, and thighs. The RTP duration had a weak association with injury location and pattern but no significant link with family support. However, there was a significant negative association between RTP duration and football team support, with shorter RTP duration as team support increased 

RTP duration and associated factors of MSI are crucial for setting expectations on time away from training and competition. This helps football teams plan for players' absences and ensures proper management and rehabilitation programs to prevent delayed or premature RTP. Strengthening injury prevention strategies through proper tackling techniques, stretching, warm-ups, and cool-down routines, alongside strong team support, can help reduce injuries and ensure timely, quality care for players.