Injuries In Female Soccer Players Research Articles

Proprioceptive training methods (PTM) in female soccer players – a systematic review

BackgroundAlthough previous studies have reported that proprioceptive training methods (PTM) have positive effects, there is a relatively small number of studies regarding the impact of PTM in women’s soccer. Therefore, there is a need to systematize the given results. In this regard, this systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of proprioceptive training methods in female soccer players.MethodsThe studies’ search and analysis were done according to the PRISMA guidelines. The following databases were checked (Google Scholar, PubMed Cochrane and ProQuest), with additional publication time criteria (2000–2023) using the following keywords: proprioceptive, balance, neuromuscular, training, exercise, intervention, method, activity, female football players, female soccer players, woman soccer players.ResultsA total of 7 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis that meet all the criteria with the number of participants being 2.247. Based on the analysis of the previous research and detailed discussion, the main findings of the study resulted in the partial improvement of explosive strength (66%), strength (50%), muscle imbalance and flexibility (50%) and the prevention and reduction of lower extremity injuries in female soccer players (60%). Only one study reported no significant differences between groups, where rate of major injuries was higher in experimental group.ConclusionThe obtained results indicate the necessity to implement proprioceptive training in female soccer training programs, in order to influence the prevention and reduction of injuries and improve balance, proprioceptive ability and body control.

Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Biomechanical Factors During 90° Change of Direction are Associated to Non-Contact ACL injury in Female Soccer Players.

The two-dimensional (2D) video-analysis of the change of direction (COD) technique has never been used to attempt to predict the risk of ACL injury in female football players. The purpose of the present pilot study was to prospectively investigate the biomechanical predictors of ACL injury during a COD task in female football players using both gold standard 3D motion capture and a qualitative scoring system based on 2D video-analysis. Prospective cohort study. Sixteen competitive female football (soccer) players (age 21.4 ± 4.3) performed a series of pre-planned 90° COD tasks. 3D motion data was recorded through 10 stereophotogrammetric cameras and a force platform. 2D frontal and transverse plane joint kinematics were computed through video-analysis from three high-speed cameras. A scoring system based on five criteria was adopted: limb stability, pelvis stability, trunk stability, shock absorption, and movement strategy. The players were prospectively followed for the next two consecutive football seasons and the occurrence of severe knee injuries was registered. Four players (25%) experienced an ACL injury. In 3D analysis, ACL-injured players showed greater knee valgus, knee internal rotation, and lower knee flexion (p= 0.017 - 0.029). Lower hip flexion coupled with greater external rotation (p= 0.003 - 0.042), ankle eversion, and contralateral pelvic drop (p<0.001) were also noted. In 2D analysis, ACL-injured players showed greater internal foot rotation, contralateral pelvic drop, lower knee flexion, and contralateral trunk tilt (moderate-to-large effect size). Pelvis stability and trunk stability showed the highest predictive value towards ACL injury. Total score was significantly lower in ACL-injured players with a moderate effect size (d=0.45). Both 3D and 2D methodologies depicted biomechanical risk factors and offered predictive insights towards the ACL injury risk. Awareness should rise in women's football regarding the high risk of ACL injury and the strategies to assess and mitigate it. 3©The Author(s).

Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis Combined With Therapeutic Exercise May Add Benefit in the Management of Soleus Injury in Female Soccer Players: A Pilot Study.

The performance of sprints during male soccer matches usually is slow medium paced, where the soleus and gastrocnemius (ankle plantar flexors) play a very important role. As in male soccer, soleus injuries should be considered in female soccer; but the scientific evidence is very limited in this case. Pilot clinical trial study. To determine whether adding an ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle electrolysis (US-guided PNE) technique to a specific exercise program improved perceived pain at stretching and at palpation, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, muscle fatigue, and sport performance in women soccer players with soleus injury. This pilot study recruited 20 female players with chronic soleus injury (type 1, characterized by hypoechoic image) who were assigned to one of 2 groups: an experimental group (exercise program + US-guided PNE; n = 10) or a control group (exercise program + sham stimulation; n = 10). Pain intensity, dorsiflexion range of motion, knee-flexion heel raise test, curve sprint test, and the global rating of change scale were analyzed at baseline and after treatment (4 wk) and there was no further follow-up. Pain intensity at palpation and at stretching, dorsiflexion range of motion, and heel raise test values showed significant improvements (P < .05) between pretreatment and posttreatment for both groups, however, no significant differences were observed between groups. Curve sprint tests did not show significant differences between pretreatment and posttreatment for either group or between groups. However, the percentage of changes always revealed better values in favor of the PNE group. Both groups showed good player satisfaction with the therapies. The application of the US-guided PNE combined with a specific exercise program may cause clinical benefits in the treatment of female soccer players with soleus injury.

Return to Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Women's Soccer

Soccer is largely recognized as the most popular sport in the world. It involves speed, agility and endurance, requiring its athletes to sprint, explode to the ball, change direction and maintain high thresholds of work for prolonged periods. In the United States, as many as 80,000 high school female athletes experience ACL injuries each year. Females tend to be more at risk for ACL injury for a multitude of reasons including biomechanical, neuromuscular activation patterns, strength imbalances and hormonal factors. Athletes and their families are becoming increasingly aware of this risk and the subsequent risk of not returning to their pre-injury level of play; thus, necessitating both preventative and post injury rehabilitation programs aimed at maximizing function and minimizing subsequent injury. A program that focuses on neuromuscular activation patterns, proprioception and balance training, functional strength, agility, landing techniques and quality of footwork is best for mitigating risk of ACL injuries in female soccer players. This post-surgical ACL reconstruction rehabilitation program for the female soccer player has been divided into five phases, each phase a progression and building upon its preceding phase. The phases range from early post-operative care to late stage, pre-clearance to return to sport guidance and have been constructed based on evidence informed guidelines focusing on maximizing function post operatively in a safe, efficient manner while minimizing risk for re-injury.

High Risk of New Knee Injuries in Female Soccer Players After Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at 5- to 10-Year Follow-up

Background: A new anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury after ACL reconstruction is a feared outcome. Purpose: To study the risk of new knee injuries in female soccer players 5 to 10 years after primary unilateral ACL reconstruction and to compare players who returned to soccer with (1) players who did not return and (2) knee-healthy soccer players (controls). Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Demographic, soccer-specific, and surgical data were recorded at baseline for 317 female soccer players (mean ± SD age, 20.1 ± 2.7 years) 1.6 ± 0.7 years after ACL reconstruction and for 119 matched controls (mean age, 19.5 ± 2.5 years). Data on new knee injuries and soccer-playing status were collected 5 to 10 years after ACL reconstruction via a questionnaire. Results: Among players with ACL reconstruction, 222 (70%) responded at a mean 6.5 ± 1.0 years after primary ACL reconstruction. We compared 3 cohorts: (1) among 163 players with ACL reconstruction who returned to soccer, 68 (42%) sustained 44 reruptures and 29 contralateral ruptures; (2) among 59 players with ACL reconstruction who did not return to soccer, 11 (19%) sustained 9 reruptures and 2 contralateral ruptures; and (3) among 113 knee-healthy controls, 12 (11%) sustained 13 ACL injuries. Players who returned had a >2-fold higher risk of a new ACL injury than players who did not return (risk ratio, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.27-3.93; P = .005) and a 4-fold higher risk than controls (risk ratio, 3.93; 95% CI, 2.23-6.91; P <.001). A new ACL, meniscal, or cartilage injury was the most frequent new knee injury. Among players who returned to soccer, 68% reported a new knee injury, and they had a 2- to 5-times higher risk of any new knee injury and knee surgery than players who did not return and controls. Conclusion: Two-thirds of female soccer players with ACL reconstruction who returned to soccer sustained a new knee injury within 5 to 10 years; 42% had a new ACL injury. Their risk of a new knee injury and knee surgery was 2 to 5 times greater than that for players who did not return and for knee-healthy controls. New injury may have negative consequences for long-term knee health and should be a critical consideration in the decision to return to play.

Clinical Risk Profile for a Second Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Female Soccer Players After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: The risk of a second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury when participating in pivoting sports after ACL reconstruction is high. Risk factors associated with a second ACL injury are complex. Purpose: To investigate the combinations of various clinical risk factors associated with second ACL injury in female soccer players with a primary unilateral ACL reconstruction, using Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 117 active female soccer players (mean ± SD age, 20 ± 2 years) were included. Athletes were enrolled 19 ± 9 months after ACL reconstruction and were prospectively followed for 2 years. At baseline, all players underwent assessment of knee and ankle joint range of motion (ROM), participated in functional tests (postural control, hop performance, and movement asymmetries in the lower limbs and trunk), and answered questionnaires (patient-reported knee function, knee-related quality of life, psychological and personality factors). A clinical prediction model using CART was developed. Results: A total of 28 players (24%) sustained a second ACL injury (21 ipsilateral and 7 contralateral ruptures) while playing soccer. CART analysis selected 9 of 19 independent variables associated with second ACL injury: the 5-jump test, knee collapse on the non–ACL reconstructed leg in a drop vertical jump, tuck jump, limb symmetry index on side hop and the single hop for distance, side difference in ankle dorsiflexion ROM, and scores for the questionnaires ACL-Return to Sport After Injury and the Swedish Universities Scales of Personality subscales of Stress Susceptibility and Adventure Seeking. The accuracy of the model was 89%, with 100% sensitivity and 76% specificity. CART analysis indicated that the interaction of longer jumps in the 5-jump test (>916 cm) with more side difference in ankle dorsiflexion ROM (>–2.5°) and more knee valgus collapse in the nonreconstructed knee (>−1.4 cm) (relative risk, 4.03; 95% CI, 2.21-7.36) best predicted an increased likelihood of a second ACL injury. Conclusion: The risk profiles selected by CART could accurately identify female soccer players at high risk for a second ACL injury. There was an interaction between functional performance, clinical assessment, and psychological factors, and it is reasonable to include these factors in return-to-sport decisions and in athlete screening after ACL injury.

Poor Validity of Functional Performance Tests to Predict Knee Injury in Female Soccer Players With or Without Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Background: Various tests have been developed to evaluate athletes’ functional performance and for use as screening tools for injury prediction. Further validation of their accuracy to predict injury is needed. Purpose: To investigate the validity of predetermined cutoffs used to differentiate between high- and low-risk players in different functional performance tests to predict (1) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury or (2) severe traumatic knee injury in a cohort of female soccer players with a primary unilateral ACL reconstruction and a cohort of knee-healthy players. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: A total of 117 active female soccer players (mean age ± SD, 20 ± 2 years) an average of 19 ± 9 months after ACL reconstruction and 119 knee-healthy players (age, 19 ± 3 years) were prospectively followed up for 2 years for new knee injuries. At baseline, all players underwent tests to assess postural control (Star Excursion Balance Test), hop performance (single-leg hop for distance, side hop), and movement asymmetries in the lower limbs and trunk (drop vertical jump [DVJ], tuck jump). The predictive validity of the test cutoffs to identify players who would sustain an ACL injury or a severe traumatic knee injury (absence from soccer play, >28 days) was assessed. The risk ratio (RR), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity were calculated. Results: A total of 46 players (39%) with ACL reconstruction sustained 48 severe knee injuries, including 28 ACL ruptures. Of the knee-healthy players, 13 (11%) sustained 14 severe knee injuries, including 8 ACL ruptures. No association was found between the predetermined functional performance test cutoffs and the risk of a new ACL injury or severe knee injury in players with ACL reconstruction. In knee-healthy players, the only variable associated with future ACL injury was ≥6.5 cm knee valgus in the frontal plane (any knee) in the DVJ (RR, 4.93; 95% CI, 1.04-23.40; P = .045), but with only fair predictive validity (AUC, 0.7; sensitivity, 0.75; specificity, 0.65). Conclusion: In our cohorts of female soccer players, the validity of commonly used functional performance tests to predict new knee injuries was poor. Only knee valgus during the DVJ was associated with new ACL injuries in knee-healthy players, but with only fair predictive validity.

Implementing Strength Training Strategies for Injury Prevention in Soccer: Scientific Rationale and Methodological Recommendations.

Due to the negative effects that injuries have on performance, club finances, and long-term player health (permanent disability after a severe injury), prevention strategies are an essential part of both sports medicine and performance. Purpose: To summarize the current evidence regarding strength training for injury prevention in soccer and to inform its evidence-based implementation in research and applied settings. Conclusions: The contemporary literature suggests that strength training, proposed as traditional resistance, eccentric, and flywheel training, may be a valid method to reduce injury risk in soccer players. Training strategies involving multiple components (eg,a combination of strength, balance, plyometrics) that include strength exercises are effective at reducing noncontact injuries in female soccer players. In addition, the body of research currently published supports the use of eccentric training in sports, which offers unique physiological responses compared with other resistance exercise modalities. It seems that the Nordic hamstring exercise, in particular, is a viable option for the reduction of hamstring injuries in soccer players. Moreover, flywheel training has specific training peculiarities and advantages that are related to the combination of both concentric and eccentric contraction, which may play an important role in injury prevention. It is the authors' opinion that strength and conditioning coaches should integrate the strength training methods proposed here in their weekly training routine to reduce the likelihood of injuries in their players; however, further research is needed to verify the advantages and disadvantages of these training methods to injury prevention using specific cohorts of soccer players.

Hip and Groin Injuries in National Collegiate Athletic Association Women's Soccer Players.

Background:Hip and groin injuries are common in competitive soccer players and have been shown to be significant sources of time loss. There are few studies describing the epidemiology of hip and groin injuries in female National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) soccer players.Purpose:To describe the epidemiology of hip and groin injuries in women’s collegiate soccer players.Study Design:Descriptive epidemiology study.Methods:The NCAA Injury Surveillance System/Program (ISS/ISP) was analyzed from 2004 through 2014 for data related to hip and groin injuries in female collegiate soccer players. Injuries and athlete-exposures (AEs) were reported by athletic trainers. Data were stratified by time of season, event type, injury type, treatment outcome, time loss, and player field position.Results:Between 2004 and 2014, there were 439 recorded hip or groin injuries in female soccer players and an overall rate of injury of 0.57 per 1000 AEs. Injuries were 12.0 times more likely to occur during the preseason (4.41/1000 AEs) as opposed to during the regular season (0.37/1000 AEs) (injury rate ratio [IRR], 12.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 9.92-14.55) or postseason (0.38/1000 AEs) (IRR, 11.55; 95% CI, 7.06-18.91). Rates of injury were similar during the regular season and postseason (IRR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.59-1.58). Rates of injury were higher during competition (0.69/1000 AEs) than during practice (0.52/1000 AEs) (IRR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.08-1.63). Most injuries were new (87.5%; n = 384) and unlikely to recur (12.5%; n = 55).Conclusion:Hip and groin injuries in female NCAA soccer players are uncommon, and fortunately, most players return to play quickly without recurrence. Future prospective studies should evaluate the effectiveness of strength and conditioning programs in preventing these injuries.

Physiological Demands, Morphological Characteristics, Physical Abilities and Injuries of Female Soccer Players.

The popularity of female soccer is increasing as well as the number of females playing soccer. Similarly, over the last twenty or so years, research in soccer has increased significantly, but a large disparity exists in the volume of studies involving male and female players. As a consequence of this, female players remain less well understood compared to males. The purpose of the present narrative review was to describe morphological characteristics, physiological demands, physical abilities and injuries in female soccer players. Physiological demands are similar between men’s and women’s soccer, but competitive women’s matches were characterized by nearly 33% less distance covered, although at higher intensity levels (maximum speeds greater than 15 km/h) than typically found in the men’s game. Sub-elite female players also tended to run less at higher intensity levels at the end of both halves in comparison with elite female players. High intensity running is an important factor of success in soccer since many critical moments of the game occur under this condition. The ability to rapidly change direction also determined elite, sub-elite and amateur levels. The implementation of functional training, which focused on soccer-specific drills and plyometric exercises, to improve explosive power, may improve conditioning in female soccer players as well as decrease the risk of injuries which was 3-8 times higher in females compared to males. This review presents an in-depth overview of the most influential factors for determining success in female soccer.

Risk Factors for Lower Extremity Overuse Injuries in Female Youth Soccer Players.

Background:Youth soccer injuries are common and of increasing concern, with sport specialization occurring at younger ages. Limited research is available regarding overuse injuries and risk factors in young female athletes.Purpose:To identify the number and rate of overuse injuries in female soccer players (ages 12-15 years), describe the anatomic location and type of injury, and evaluate contributing risk factors.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A total of 351 female youth soccer players, ages 12 to 15 years, from Washington State were evaluated from 2008 to 2012. Players with lower extremity overuse injuries were identified through weekly emails and were interviewed by telephone to obtain data on injury type and body region. We evaluated the association between overuse injuries and preseason risk factors, including joint hypermobility, hip and knee muscle strength, and jump biomechanics, using Poisson regression to estimate relative risk (RR) and 95% CIs.Results:The incidence rate for first-time lower extremity overuse injuries was 1.7 per 1000 athlete-exposure hours (AEH; 95% CI, 1.4-2.2), and that for repeat injuries was 3.4 per 1000 AEH (95% CI, 2.1-5.6). Knee injuries accounted for 47% of overuse injuries. Increased valgus was associated with a 3.2-fold increased risk (95% CI, 1.52-6.71) for knee injury. A 1–standard deviation (SD) increase in hamstring strength was associated with a 35% decreased risk (RR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.46-0.91) for overuse knee injuries, and a 1-SD increase in quadriceps strength was associated with a 30% decreased risk (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98). A 1-SD increase in hip flexor strength was associated with a 28% decreased risk (RR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.51-1.00) for overuse knee injuries, and a 1-SD increase in external rotation strength was associated with a 35% decreased risk (RR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.46-0.91). Playing on more than 1 soccer team was associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk (95% CI, 1.08-5.35) for overuse knee injuries, and participating in other physical activities was associated with a 61% decreased risk (odds ratio, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.15-0.81).Conclusion:In this study, lower extremity overuse injuries in female youth soccer players affected primarily the knee. Lower knee separation distance, decreased lower extremity strength, and playing on more than 1 soccer team increased injury risk.

The preventive effect of a soccer-specific ankle brace on acute lateral ankle sprains in girls amateur soccer players: study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial

BackgroundAcute lateral ankle sprains are the single most often diagnosed injury in female soccer players and often result in an inability to play. This highlights the need for effective prevention...

The effects of "Prevent Injury and Enhance Performance Program" in a female soccer team.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes of muscle strength in lower limbs and knee valgus alignment using the Prevent Injury and Enhance Performance Program (PEP program) to prevent ACL injuries in female soccer players during an entire season. A longitudinal and prospective study was done in twenty female soccer players at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, from a senior team. During 24 weeks the training program was applied three times a week as a part of the team workouts. Video analysis of dynamic knee valgus alignment and maximal strength of quadriceps, hamstrings and gastrocnemius were evaluated pre and post-training. Quadriceps and hamstring strength increased on the right pelvic limb (P<0.001). In addition the quadriceps/hamstrings ratio decreased from 3.38 to 2.3 in the right side, and from 1.99 to 1.09 in the left side. The mechanics of jump improved in 20% of the female soccer players. Muscle strength in quadriceps and hamstrings increased in right pelvic limb (P<0.001), and the quadriceps/hamstrings ratio decreased from 3.38 to 2.3 in right side and from 1.99 to 1.09 in left side. Although injuries did not decrease during this period no ACL injury was registered. Until now there are no reports about muscle strength and jump technique assessment with the application of the PEP program. The neuromuscular training and muscle balance are important to prevent ACL injuries. We advise that this program is integrated to women's soccer training.

Mechanism of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Female Soccer Players

Background: The risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is higher in female soccer players than in male soccer players. The most common reason for non-contact ACL injury has been found to be a cutting or stopping maneuver combined with deceleration and landing from a jump. In a previous study, there was no difference in the incidence of ACL injury between offensive and defensive players and in the risk of ACL injury between goalkeepers and other players. Recently studies reported that the most frequent injury situation was pressing in male players. However, the most common type of situation associated with ACL injury in female soccer players has not been clarified. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to identify the most common type of situation associated with ACL injury in female soccer players. Methods: We handed out questionnaires to 80 female soccer players with a history of ACL injury (90 ACL injuries). The players were asked about the injury characteristics, injury circumstance, maneuver being performed when the injury occurred, and playing type associated with the injury. The players responded to the questionnaire under the guidance of the medical staff of each team. Results: The 80 female soccer players reported a total of 90 ACL injuries during soccer. Among 55 non-contact injuries, 29 (55%) occurred during a cutting maneuver and 22 (44%) occurred during pressing. On assessing the frequency distributions of playing type (pressing vs. others) and body contact (contact vs. no contact), we found that non-contact injuries at pressing were significantly more common than contact injuries at pressing (odds ratio: 3.03; 95% confidence interval, 1.11 - 8.25, P = 0.036) Conclusions: ACL injury often occurs as non-contact injury during pressing at the time of defense, regardless of the playing area, in female soccer players.

Risk Factors for Lower Extremity Injuries in Elite Female Soccer Players

Background: The incidence of lower extremity injuries in female soccer players is high, but the risk factors for injuries are unknown. Purpose: To investigate risk factors for lower extremity injuries in elite female soccer players. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Players in the Norwegian elite female soccer league (N = 12 teams) participated in baseline screening tests before the 2009 competitive soccer season. The screening included tests assessing maximal lower extremity strength, dynamic balance, knee valgus angles in a drop-jump landing, knee joint laxity, generalized joint laxity, and foot pronation. Also included was a questionnaire to collect information on demographic data, elite-level experience, and injury history. Time-loss injuries and exposure in training and matches were recorded prospectively in the subsequent soccer season using weekly text messaging. Players reporting an injury were contacted to collect data regarding injury circumstances. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for ±1 standard deviation of change. Results: In total, 173 players underwent complete screening tests and registration of injuries and exposure throughout the season. A total of 171 injuries in 107 players (62%) were recorded; ligament and muscle injuries were the most frequent. Multivariate analyses showed that a greater body mass index (BMI) (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.21-1.90; P = .001) was the only factor significantly associated with new lower extremity injuries. A greater BMI was associated with new thigh injuries (OR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.08-2.11; P = .01), a lower knee valgus angle in a drop-jump landing was associated with new ankle injuries (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.41-1.00; P = .04), and a previous knee injury was associated with new lower leg and foot injuries (OR, 3.57; 95% CI, 1.27-9.99; P = .02), whereas none of the factors investigated influenced the risk of new knee injuries. Conclusion: A greater BMI was associated with lower extremity injuries in elite female soccer players. Clinical Relevance: Increased knowledge on risk factors for lower extremity injuries enables more targeted prevention strategies with the aim of reducing injury rates in female soccer players.

Female Soccer

SUMMARY PART 1 OF THIS ARTICLE IDENTIFIED THE DEMANDS OF FEMALE SOCCER AND THE SPECIFIC AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED TO OPTIMIZE PERFORMANCE AND REDUCE THE RISK OF COMMON INJURIES. INCREASES IN AEROBIC CAPACITY, STRENGTH, AND LOWER LIMB CONTROL WERE REQUIRED TO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE AND REDUCE THE RISKS OF COMMON INJURIES. THE AIMS OF PART 2 ARE TO PROVIDE EXAMPLES OF EVIDENCE-BASED INTEGRATED STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS THE ISSUES IDENTIFIED IN PART 1 AND TO ENSURE NOT ONLY ENHANCED PERFORMANCE BUT ALSO A REDUCED INCIDENCE OF COMMON INJURIES IN FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS.

Common lower extremity injuries in female high school soccer players in Johannesburg east district

Objectives. Soccer is one of the sports in South Africa which hasseen an increase in the participation of youth and adult female players. The aim of this study was to determine point and 1-year prevalence, profile of injuries that affect female soccer players, associations between injuries and player position, age, use of equipment, frequency of play, and training duration. Methods. A retrospective questionnaire-based descriptive survey of 103 first team high school female soccer players in the Johannesburg east district was conducted.Results. The 1-year prevalence for the participants who reportedinjuries was 46% (N=47) and the point prevalence was 33% (N=34). From these, a total of 78 and 42 injuries for the 1-year and point prevalence respectively were reported. An extended duration of skills (p=0.0001) and fitness (p=0.02) training in this population reduced the likelihood of incurring an injury. The older the participants, the more chance there was of sustaining injuries (p=0.01). The participants who wore shin guards were less prone to shin/leg injuries (p=0.01), the relative odds being 0.35. Themidfielders had more foot and toe injuries than the other players(p=0.05). Starting age (p=0.78), frequency of play (p=0.83), wearing of shoes (p=0.54) and stretching had no influence on injury. The knee and ankle were the main locations of injury, with defenders and midfielders mostly being injured. Conclusion. A decrease in the duration of training for both skills and fitness and not wearing shin guards are risk factors for injury in female soccer players in high school. The profile of injuries andthe risk factors determined from this study do not differ from the studies done in male adolescent and adult soccer players.

Relationship Between Balance Ability, Training and Sports Injury Risk

Traditionally, balance training has been used as part of the rehabilitation programme for ankle injuries. More recently, balance training has been adopted to try and prevent injuries to the ankle and knee joints during sport. The purpose of this review is to synthesise current knowledge in the area of balance ability, training and injury risk, highlight the findings and identify any future research needs. A number of studies have found that poor balance ability is significantly related to an increased risk of ankle injuries in different activities. This relationship appears to be more common in males than females. Multifaceted intervention studies that have included balance training along with jumping, landing and agility exercises have resulted in a significant decrease in ankle or knee injuries in team handball, volleyball and recreational athletes. It is unknown which component of the multifaceted intervention was most effective and whether the effects are additive. As a single intervention, balance training has been shown to significantly reduce the recurrence of ankle ligament injuries in soccer, volleyball and recreational athletes; however, it has not been clearly shown to reduce ankle injuries in athletes without a prior ankle injury. Balance training on its own has also been shown to significantly reduce anterior cruciate ligament injuries in male soccer players. Surprisingly, it was also found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of major knee injuries in female soccer players and overuse knee injuries in male and female volleyball players. The studies with the contrasting findings differed in aspects of their balance training programmes. It would appear that balance training, as a single intervention, is not as effective as when it is part of a multifaceted intervention. Research is required to determine the relative contribution of balance training to a multifaceted intervention so as to generate an effective and efficient preventative programme that can be adopted by athletes of most levels.

Trauma injuries sustained by female footballers

Soccer is becoming the leading sport for women worldwide with 21 million females registered with the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). It is now the top female sport in England with 131 678 registered players and 9600 registered clubs. Several studies have looked at the injury rates amongst female players. Some injuries have been highlighted as more common in women. This article looks at the epidemiology of injuries in women's soccer and in particular anterior cruciate ligament injuries, ankle injuries and concussion. It will discuss the diagnosis and management needed for these injuries in female soccer players. With this increasing popularity, clinicians will see more female players sustaining trauma through playing soccer. Early and appropriate management of these injuries is essential if women are to continue to enjoy soccer at a recreational level and succeed at a competitive level, perhaps with a podium finish in 2012.

Injuries in Female Soccer Players

Background In contrast to the high number of studies about soccer injuries in men, epidemiologic data in high-level female soccer players are scarce. Purpose Analysis of injury incidence in elite female soccer players. Study Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods There were 165 female soccer players (age, 22.4 ± 5.0 years) from 9 teams competing in the German national league, who were followed for one complete outdoor season. Their trainers documented the exposure to soccer on a weekly basis for each player, and the team physical therapists reported all injuries with regard to location, type, and circumstances of occurrence. An injury was defined as any physical complaint associated with soccer that limited sports participation for at least 1 day. Results There were 241 injuries sustained by 115 players (70%) reported; 39 injuries (16%) were owing to overuse, and 202 injuries (84%) were traumatic. Overall, 42% of the traumatic injuries occurred during training (2.8/1000 hours of training; 95% confidence interval, 2.2-3.4) and 58% during matches (23.3/1000 match hours; 95% confidence interval, 19.1-27.5); 102 of the traumatic injuries were caused by a contact situation, whereas 95 occurred without any contact. Most injuries (80%) were located at the lower extremities, concerning mainly the thigh (n = 44), knee (n = 45), and ankle (n = 43). Ankle sprain (n = 37) was the most often diagnosed injury. There were 51% minor injuries, 36% moderate injuries, and 13% major injuries. Eleven anterior cruciate ligament ruptures were observed during the season. Conclusion The results revealed a high injury incidence rate in games as well as a comparably low incidence rate during training. An important finding of this investigation was the frequent occurrence of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures. Preventive measures should thus focus on the high prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament tears, mostly occurring in noncontact situations.