Influence of previous injuries on fundamental movement patterns in professional female soccer players

Abstract

At the high level, the detection of the risk of injury is crucial for sporting success. For this purpose, technical teams often look for simple, economical and informative tools, such as functional tests and injury records. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to describe both the previous injuries and the compensations expressed by female football players in basic movement patterns, as well as to analyse the relationship between these injuries and the fundamental motor patterns analysed. This retrospective cohort study involved 16 second division female football players [Age: 22±4.11 years; federated practice: 10±4.49 years]. Basic motor patterns were evaluated using Basic Functional Assessment (BAFA) and a questionnaire on injuries from the previous season was completed. Nine players (56.25%) suffered some injury, among which eight (88.89%) were located in the lower limb and the majority of injuries were caused by overuse, without contact (n=7). The mean percentages of compensations and asymmetries in the VAFB were 65.79%±11.80 and 15.30%±4.82, respectively. Functional assessment results were slightly better for players who did not suffer injury, although the differences were not significant [t=-,605; p=,555]. The results of the VAFB could be used in the design of individualized preventive programs in women s soccer.