The use of local anaesthetic in professional football

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to document instances of use of local anaesthetic which enabled players to participate in matches and training. This study was conducted at an AFL club over 4 seasons (covering 4421 player matches). Injections were used only when it was considered : ( 1 ) that a good block was achievable without impairing motor function; (2) that without its use a player either could not participate or would be severely hindered; (3) that any risks involved were fully assessed and explained to the player; (4) that any such risks were considered by both player and doctor to be clearly outweighed by the benefits of allowing continued participation. The local anaesthetics used were bupivicaine, prilocaine and lignocaine (sometimes with adrenaline) by injection or topical administration.