Injury Profile in Women’s Football: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
A summary of the article:
The article "Injury Profile in Women’s Football: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" provides a comprehensive examination of the types, frequency, and severity of injuries in elite-level women's football. Through a meta-analysis of 22 studies, the research highlights that match injuries are nearly six times more frequent than training injuries, with most injuries affecting the lower extremities, such as the knee, ankle, and thigh. Muscle and tendon injuries, as well as joint and ligament injuries, are the most common types reported. The review also points out that severe injuries, particularly those involving the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), are prevalent and account for significant time lost from the sport.
The article emphasizes the importance of developing targeted injury prevention strategies, especially during matches where injury risks are highest. It suggests that understanding the specific dynamics of match play and the physical demands placed on female players is crucial for reducing injury rates. The review also underscores the need for more consistent injury reporting methods and injury surveillance systems to improve player safety and team performance.
Key Takeaways:
Higher injury rates in matches: Injury incidence during matches (19.2 injuries per 1000 hours) is almost six times higher than during training (3.5 injuries per 1000 hours), with lower extremity injuries being the most common.
Prevalence of severe injuries: ACL and other ligament injuries are particularly severe and account for significant time lost from football, affecting player health and team performance.
Need for targeted injury prevention: The study calls for the introduction of injury prevention strategies that address match-specific dynamics to reduce the risk of injuries in elite-level women’s football.
Authors: Alejandro López-Valenciano, Javier Raya-González, Jose Alberto Garcia-Gómez, Alba Aparicio-Sarmiento, Pilar Sainz de Baranda, Mark De Ste Croix & Francisco Ayala
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