Special Considerations for Physical Therapy Treatment of Common Soccer Injuries

Optimum return from any sports injury doesn’t mean returning as quickly as possible. An athlete who goes back to sport without restoring functional stability faces a higher risk of re-injury and poor outcomes.

ACL Tears – Many risk factors for ACL tears, such as sex and anatomical differences in the pelvis and femur, are beyond our control. However, strength and movement form are factors we can influence. Special attention is given to limiting increased knee valgus during strength and plyometric training to reduce the risk of re-injury. The average return to full activity and sports participation typically ranges from 6 to 12 months after surgery, depending on progress in physical therapy and the type of sport. Some studies suggest that the graft may take 18 months or longer to fully incorporate and become functional. Returning to activity too early can increase the risk of re-injury and graft failure.

Meniscus Lesions – Return to sport varies widely depending on the severity and location of the tear, as well as whether surgical repair was needed. Prior to returning to play, focused plyometric and sport-specific training should emphasize cutting, quick changes of direction, and acceleration/deceleration.

Ankle Sprains – Typical rehabilitation includes range of motion exercises, strengthening (targeting dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, inversion, and eversion), and balance training. When returning to sport, rehab must also incorporate functional, proprioceptive, sport-specific, and plyometric exercises. Even after returning to play, continuing ankle-strengthening and proprioception work is essential to prevent future sprains.

Muscle Injuries – Extra emphasis should be placed on eccentric strengthening during recovery from muscle strains and the return to sport. Eccentric training helps with the rapid transition between acceleration and deceleration. Power development is also critical and should be included in sport-specific training to support the explosive movements needed during play.

Core motor control exercise