Subsequent Injury Risk After Return-to-Play From Lower-Extremity Muscle Injuries in Professional Male Football (Soccer)

The authors aimed to investigate the risk trajectories for noncontact subsequent injuries following return-to-play (RTP) from major lower-extremity muscle injuries in professional male football players, distinguishing between acute and overuse injuries. They found varying rates of subsequent injuries across different muscle groups, with acute hamstring and adductor injuries showing elevated risks that diminished over time, while overuse calf injuries exhibited a delayed peak in risk. This study underscores the importance of tailored RTP decision-making based on the specific type of muscle injury.