‘Considering the reality, I am very lucky’: how professional players and staff perceive injury prevention and performance protection in women’s football
A summary of the research:
The article "Considering the Reality, I Am Very Lucky: How Professional Players and Staff Perceive Injury Prevention and Performance Protection in Women’s Football" explores the perceptions of professional female football players and staff regarding injury prevention and player health. Interviews with players, coaches, physiotherapists, and team doctors from Portugal and England revealed that while professional athletes have access to advanced resources for injury prevention, there are still gaps in support, particularly at amateur and semi-professional levels. The study emphasizes that injury risks vary depending on the stage of a player’s career, with limited healthcare resources and inadequate recovery time being major concerns during early career phases. Injury prevention strategies, such as load management, individualized care, and continuous monitoring, were seen as essential at the professional level.
The findings highlight the significant differences between the resources available to professional and non-professional players. Participants expressed that amateur and semi-professional players often lack access to proper healthcare, increasing their risk of injury. In contrast, professional players benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, including medical and performance teams, that support injury prevention. However, participants also acknowledged that more can be done to improve injury prevention strategies, particularly at lower levels of the sport, through better education and investment.
Key Takeaways:
Injury risks vary by career stage: Amateur and semi-professional players face higher injury risks due to limited healthcare and recovery resources.
Multidisciplinary approach at the professional level: Professional teams rely on a combination of individualized care, monitoring, and teamwork to prevent injuries.
Need for improved injury prevention at lower levels: Increased education and resources are necessary to reduce injury risks and support players' development
Authors: Caroline Bolling, Rita Tomás, Evert Verhagen
You can read the whole article here.
