Comparing the Aerobic Fitness of Professional Male Soccer Players and Soccer Referees.

We looked to compare the aerobic performance between professional soccer referees and players. Fifty male soccer referees and 61 male soccer players were tested on a treadmill. The referees and players possessed 15 ± 7 years and 7 ± 3 years of experience in soccer, respectively. Significant differences were observed between the referees and players with regards to: age (34.8 ± 4.6 years vs 20.8 ± 2.7 years; P < 0.001, maximum oxygen uptake (54.7 ± 5.4 mL·kg·min vs 58.8 ± 4.4 mL·kg·min; P < 0.001), and maximal heart rate in peak exercise (184 ± 11 bpm vs 192 ± 9 bpm, P < 0.001). Less significant differences also were observed and included; running speed at the maximum oxygen uptake (16.6 ± 1 km·h vs 16.4 ± 1.1 km·h), running speed at the ventilatory threshold (213.5 ± 1.1 km·h vs 13.2 ± 0.9 km·h), and percentage of maximal oxygen uptake at the ventilatory threshold (285.1% ± 3.2% vs 84.1% ± 6.2%). The effect size of most comparative variables between the two groups was small (<0.6). Older elite-level soccer referees are able to reach and maintain aerobic physical fitness levels similar to professional soccer players. Aerobic physical fitness may be a measurable factor for maintaining elite-level soccer licensure rather than age alone.

The biomechanical effects of graft rotation on ACL reconstruction tunnel mismatch.

PURPOSE: Bone block protrusion out of the tibial tunnel due to a relatively long graft is a common complication in anterior cruciate ligament surgical reconstruction with a patellar tendon. One possible solution is to shorten the patellar tendon graft already fixed in the femur by applying external rotation. This study aimed to evaluate the degree of shortening and biomechanical changes in porcine patellar grafts subjected to relatively higher degrees of rotation. Data obtained with rotations of 0°, 540°, 720°, and 900° were compared. METHODS: Forty patellar porcine ligaments were subjected to biomechanical tests of degree of shortening, modulus of elasticity and maximum tension in the tendon before rupture. Tests were conducted using a universal mechanical testing machine and a computerized system for acquiring strength and deformation data. RESULTS: Progressive shortening of the patellar ligament occurred with rotations of 0°, 540° and 720°. However, the degree of shortening showed no statistically significant difference as rotation increased from 720° to 900°. Decreased modulus of elasticity was observed compared with the graft rotation at 0° in all groups tested, but no statistically significant differences were observed among 540°, 720° and 900°. The maximum tension of the patellar tendon showed no change before rupture, regardless of the degree of rotation. CONCLUSIONS: Rotating the patellar tendon is an efficient method for shortening a relatively long graft; however, more biomechanical studies are necessary to recommend this technique in clinical practice owing to the resulting decrease in graft stiffness that could compromise knee stability.

The influence of femoral tunnel position in single-bundle ACL reconstruction on functional outcomes and return to sports.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to radiographically investigate the influence of femoral tunnel placement in ACL reconstruction on early outcomes and return to sports due to anatomic and nonanatomic positioning. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted from 2008 to 2010, with 86 athletes who underwent ACL reconstruction between anteromedial (AM) footprint and high AM position. Knee functional outcomes (IKDC objective and subjective, Tegner score, and Lysholm scale) return to sports and complications were analyzed at 6- and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS: At follow-up, it was observed that tunnel projection along Blumensaat's line was correlated with functional outcomes on Tegner scale (at 6 and 12 months) and IKDC subjective (at 12 months). There was a significant difference in mean tunnel projection along Blumensaat's line when analyzing return to sports (73 ± 1.4 and 79 ± 1.7 %, respectively, for projections on return vs. no return to sports, p = 0.02) and complications (73 ± 1.3 vs. 78 ± 1.6 %, respectively, for projections on no complications vs. complications, p = 0.03). No differences were stated on coronal view. These correlations between tunnel positioning on functional outcomes could not be explained by demographic or baseline characteristics. CONCLUSION: The clinical relevance of this study is that tunnel positioning along AM footprint and high AM position represented by tunnel projection along Blumensaat's line is associated with early return to sports on previous Tegner level and better functional outcome in athletes.

Optimised return to play: high treatment success rate in core muscle injury with surgical release of the anterior tendon of the rectus abdominis muscle and proximal tenotomy of the adductor longus muscle.

OBJECTIVES: Core muscle injury is a debilitating condition that causes chronic groin pain in athletes, particularly common in soccer players. The condition is characterised by pain in the inguinal region and can lead to a significant number of absences from high-intensity physical activity. It is caused by repetitive overload without proper counterbalance from the abdominal muscles, hip flexors, and adductors in susceptible athletes. Surgical indications for core muscle injury consider cases where non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief. The aim of this study was to assess the results of surgical intervention for core muscle injury using the technique employed by the Sports Medicine Group of (Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology of Hospital das Clínicas - Universidade de São Paulo). The procedure involves releasing the anterior portion of the tendon of the rectus abdominis muscle near the pubic symphysis, along with proximal tenotomy of the adductor longus muscle tendon. METHODS: This study utilised a consecutive historical cohort analysis of the medical records of 45 male athletes, of which, 75.6% were professional soccer players, who underwent surgical treatment between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2021. The participants included active athletes aged between 18 and 40 years, with a mean age of 23.9 years, and were diagnosed with myotendinous core muscle injury. These athletes experienced pain in the pubic symphysis and adductor tendon region and had previously undergone medical treatment and physical therapy for a duration of three to six months without significant improvement. RESULTS: The average time for athletes to return to sport after surgery was 135 days, with a majority of participants being soccer and futsal players. The surgical intervention yielded promising results, with a positive correlation between unilateral injuries and the time taken to return to sport. The complication rate was low, at 6.7%. Notably, the rate of symptom resolution was high, at 93.3%. Furthermore, the analysis indicated that the player's position on the field significantly influenced the discharge period, suggesting that the game position plays a role in the recovery process. CONCLUSION: The combined surgical procedure involving the release of the rectus abdominis tendon and adductor longus muscle tenotomy demonstrates favourable outcomes for athletes with core muscle injury. This study provides strong support for the effectiveness of this surgical approach in managing the condition and offers a potential path to recovery and return to sports activities. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study.

The FIFA medical emergency bag and FIFA 11 steps to prevent sudden cardiac death: setting a global standard and promoting consistent football field emergency care.

Life-threatening medical emergencies are an infrequent but regular occurrence on the football field. Proper prevention strategies, emergency medical planning and timely access to emergency equipment are required to prevent catastrophic outcomes. In a continuing commitment to player safety during football, this paper presents the FIFA Medical Emergency Bag and FIFA 11 Steps to prevent sudden cardiac death. These recommendations are intended to create a global standard for emergency preparedness and the medical response to serious or catastrophic on-field injuries in football.

ANTEROMEDIAL OR CENTRAL ANATOMIC ACL RECONSTRUCTION? A CADAVERIC HIP-TO-TOE STUDY.

Objective: To compare anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction between two tunnel positions in knees with isolated ligament tears. Methods: Anatomic ACL reconstruction was performed, from hip-to-toe, on 15 fresh cadaveric specimens. No associated lesions were created to enhance knee instability. The protocol was conducted in three states: (1) complete isolated ACL deficiency; (2) anatomic femoral and tibial anteromedial ACL reconstruction (AM REC); and (3) anatomic femoral and tibial central ACL reconstruction (Central REC). The reconstruction protocols were randomly assigned. The continuous mechanized pivot-shift test was recorded dynamically with a tracking system. Results: The Central REC group showed a smaller degree of internal rotation (0.6° ± 0.3° vs. 1.8° ± 0.3°, respectively, P < 0.05) and no difference in anterior translation (4.7 mm ± 0.4 mm vs. 4.5 mm ± 0.4 mm, respectively, P > 0.05) in the pivot-shift test, compared with the AM REC group. Conclusion: The central anatomic ACL reconstruction resulted in greater restriction of internal rotation than the anteromedial anatomic ACL reconstruction. Experimental Study on Cadaver.

Objetivo: Comparar a reconstrução anatômica do ligamento cruzado anterior (LCA) entre duas posições de túnel em joelhos com lesões isoladas do ligamento. Métodos: A reconstrução anatômica do LCA foi realizada, do quadril aos pés, em 15 peças anatômicas de cadáveres frescos. Não foram criadas lesões associadas para intensificar a instabilidade do joelho. O protocolo foi realizado em três estados: (1) deficiência isolada completa do LCA; (2) reconstrução anatômica femoral e anteromedial tibial do LCA (AM REC); e (3) reconstrução anatômica femoral e central tibial do LCA (Central REC). Os protocolos de reconstrução foram atribuídos aleatoriamente. O teste de pivot-shift mecanizado contínuo foi registrado dinamicamente com um sistema de rastreamento. Resultados: O grupo Central REC apresentou menor grau de rotação interna (0,6° ± 0,3° vs. 1,8° ± 0,3°, respectivamente, p < 0,05) e nenhuma diferença na translação anterior (4,7 mm ± 0,4 mm vs. 4,5 mm ± 0,4 mm, respectivamente, p > 0,05) no teste de pivot-shift, comparado ao grupo AM REC. Conclusão: A reconstrução anatômica central tibial do LCA resultou em maior restrição da rotação interna do que a reconstrução anteromedial tibial do LCA. Estudo em Cadáver Experimental.

Isokinetic muscle strength and knee function associated with double femoral pin fixation and fixation with interference screw in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PURPOSE: Intensive scheduling in sports requires athletes to resume physical activity shortly after injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate early isokinetic muscle strength and knee function on bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) ACL reconstruction with double femoral pin fixation or interference screw technique. METHODS: A prospective study was conducted from 2008 to 2009, with 48 athletes who received femoral BPTB fixation with interference screw (n = 26) or double pin (n = 22). Clinical (IKDC objective score and hop test) and isokinetic muscle strength (peak torque (PT), PT/body weight and flexion/extension rate (F/E) in 60 and 240°/s) were analyzed at 6 months of follow-up. RESULTS: Analysis at baseline showed no differences between groups before surgery related to age, gender, associated injury, Tegner or Lysholm score; thus showing that groups were similar. During follow-up, however, there were significant differences between the two groups in some of the isokinetic muscle strength: PT/BW 60°/s (Double Pin = 200% ± 13% vs. Interference Screw = 253% ± 16%*, *P = 0.01); F/E 60°/s (Double Pin = 89% ± 29%* vs. Interference Screw = 74% ± 12%, *P = 0.04). No statistical differences between groups were observed on IKDC objective score, hop test and complications. CONCLUSION: The significant muscle strength outcome of the interference screw group found in this study gives initial evidence that this fixation technique is useful for athletes that may need accelerated rehabilitation. Early return to sports ability signaled by isokinetic muscle strength is of clinical relevance as it is one of the main goals for athletes' rehabilitation.

Muscle Injury: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment.

Skeletal muscle tissue has the largest mass in the human body, accounting for 45% of the total weight. Muscle injuries can be caused by bruising, stretching or laceration. The current classification divides these injuries into mild, moderate and severe. The signs and symptoms of grade I lesions are edema and discomfort; grade II, loss of function, gaps and possible ecchymosis; and grade III, complete rupture, severe pain and extensive hematoma. The diagnosis can be confirmed by ultrasound, which is dynamic and cheap, but examiner dependent; and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which provides better anatomical definition. The initial phase of the treatment consists in protection, rest, optimal use of the affected limb, and cryotherapy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ultrasound therapy, strengthening and stretching after the initial phase and range of motion without pain are used in the clinical treatment. On the other hand, surgery has precise indications: hematoma drainage and muscle-tendon reinsertion and reinforcement.

INCREASED RISK OF SPORTS INJURIES AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Objective: To evaluate the nature and rate of sports injuries in medical students, as well as the risk factors at these events. Methods: All student-athletes (218) from a Medical School, integrated in at least one of the six team sport modalities (soccer, rugby, indoor soccer, handball, basketball, and volleyball) in 2017, were included. Injuries affecting their performance, regardless of time loss, were included. Athlete-exposure (A-E) was defined as one student-athlete participating in one practice or game. Results: Injury rates were significantly higher in junior medical students (1st - 3rd year) (7.58 per 1000 A-E, 95%CI = 6.11-9.06) than in senior medical students (4th - 6th year) (4.49 per 1000 A-E, 95%CI = 3.26-5.73) (p < 0.001). Multi-sports athletes had higher injury rates (10.69 per 1000 A-E, 95%CI = 8.22-13.17) than single-sport athletes (4.49 per 1000 A-E, 95%CI = 3.51-5.47) (p = 0.002). More than 60% of reported injuries occurred in the lower limbs and the mechanism that accounted for most injuries in games was player contact (51%); whereas in practice, it was non-contact (53%). Conclusion: Junior medical students present a higher injury rate than seniors. Medical students practicing more than one modality had a higher injury rate than those involved in just one sport modality. Level of Evidence IV, Cross-Sectional Study.

Objetivo: Avaliar a incidência e as características das lesões esportivas em alunos de medicina, assim como os fatores de risco envolvidos. Métodos: Todos os alunos (218) da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo que integravam seis modalidades esportivas (futebol, rugby, futsal, handebol, basquete e vôlei) em 2017 foram incluídos. Foram incluídas as lesões que afetaram a performance, independente do tempo de afastamento. Uma exposição-atleta (E-A) foi definida como a participação de um aluno em um jogo ou treino. Resultados: A taxa de lesão foi maior em alunos do 1º ao 3º ano (7,58 por 1000 E-As 95% IC = 6,11-9,06) do que em alunos do 4º ao 6º ano (4,49 por 1000 E-As 95% IC = 3,26-5,73) (p < 0.001).Alunos praticantes de mais de uma modalidade apresentaram maior taxa de lesão (10,69 por 1000 E-As, 95% IC 8,22-13,17) do que alunos praticantes de apenas uma modalidade (4.49 por 1000 E-As, 95% IC 3,51-5,47) (p = 0.002). Mais de 60% daslesões ocorreram nos membros inferiores e o principal mecanismo em jogos foi contato com outro jogador (51%), e em treinos foi lesão sem contato (53%). Conclusão: Alunos do 1 ˚ ao 3 ˚ ano apresentaram maior taxa de lesão do que alunos do 4º ao 6º ano. Alunos praticantes de mais de uma modalidade apresentaram maior taxa de lesão do que alunos praticantes de apenas uma modalidade. Nível de Evidência IV, Estudo Transversal.

Joint position statement of the International Federation of Sports Medicine (FIMS) and European Federation of Sports Medicine Associations (EFSMA) on the IOC framework on fairness, inclusion and non-discrimination based on gender identity and sex variations.

The IOC recently published its framework on fairness, inclusion and non-discrimination based on gender identity and sex variations. This framework is drafted mainly from a human rights perspective, with less consideration for medical/scientific issues. The framework places the onus for gender eligibility and classification entirely on the International Federations (IFs), even though most will not have the capacity to implement the framework. The position of no presumption of advantage is contrary to the 2015 IOC consensus. Implementation of the 2021 framework will be a major challenge for IFs that have already recognised the inclusion of trans and women athletes with differences of sexual development (DSD) using a scientific/medical solution. The potential consequences for sports that need to prioritise fairness or safety could be one of two extremes (1) exclusion of all transgender or DSD athletes on the grounds of advantage or (2) self-identification that essentially equates to no eligibility rules. Exclusion of all transgender or DSD athletes is contrary to the Olympic charter and unlawful in many countries. While having no gender eligibility rules, sport loses its meaning and near-universal support. Athletes should not be under pressure to undergo medical procedures or treatment to meet eligibility criteria. However, if an athlete is fully informed and consents, then it is their free choice to undergo carefully considered or necessary interventions for gender classification for sport to compete fairly and safely in their chosen gender. Free choice is a fundamental human right, but so is the right to fair and safe competition.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF HIP PAIN IN BRAZILIAN BODYBUILDERS.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of hip pain in competitive bodybuilders over three different bodybuilding competitions. METHODS: This study evaluated bodybuilders recruited from three competitions during the year of 2016. All participants provided their informed consent and the study received IRB approval. Training routine, health condition, level of success on competitions, history of hip pain and physical examination of the hip were evaluated. RESULTS: 113 bodybuilders were evaluated, mean age was 30.5 ± 8.65 years and mean BMI was 25.2 ± 3.65 kg/m2. Mean values for hip flexion, adduction, abduction, internal rotation, external rotation and distance between the knee and the table (FABER distance) were 116 ± 13, 23 ± 8, 71 ± 12, 40 ± 10, 36 ± 9 and 19 ± 4, respectively. Eight (7%) participants presented hip pain within the week prior to examination and only 2 (1,7%) presented with anterior impingement sign. None of the athletes who reported hip pain interrupted their physical training or performance. CONCLUSION: Symptomatic athletes continued their training program under the presence of hip pain. The frequency of hip pain among bodybuilders is high and may be underestimated in this study. Level of Evidence IV, Case series.

OBJETIVO: Determinar a frequência de dor no quadril em atletas fisiculturistas durante três competições de fisiculturismo. MÉTODOS: Este estudo avaliou fisiculturistas recrutados em três competições de fisiculturismo durante o ano de 2016. Termo de consentimento foi obtido de todos os participantes, e também foi obtido a aprovação do CEP. Rotina de treinos, condição de saúde, nível de sucesso nas competições, antecedente de dor no quadril ao exame físico foram avaliados. RESULTADOS: Um total de 113 fisiculturistas foram avaliados, com idade e IMC médio de 30.5 ± 8.65 anos e 25.2 ± 3.65 kg/m2, respectivamente. O valor médio de flexão, adução, abdução, rotação interna, rotação externa do quadril, e distância entre o joelho e a mesa de exame (distância FABERE) foi de 116 ± 13, 23 ± 8, 71 ± 12, 40 ± 10, 36 ± 9 e 19 ± 4, respectivamente. Oito (7%) participantes apresentavam dor no quadril dentro da última semana antes de serem examinados, e apenas dois (1.7%) apresentavam sinal do impacto anterior do quadril à manobra de flexão adução e rotação interna. A dor no quadril não afetou o treinamento físico e a performance dos atletas que reportaram dor no quadril. CONCLUSÃO: Atletas sintomáticos continuaram o programa de treinamento mesmo na presença de dor no quadril. A frequência de dor no quadril de atletas fisiculturistas é alta e pode ter sido subestimada neste estudo. Nível de Evidência IV, Série de casos.

Clinical Outcome Evaluation of Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Tunnel Positioning Using Gold Standard Techniques: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: There have been conflicting results about the theoretical advantages of anatomic double-bundle anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes comparing anatomic single- versus double-bundle techniques, anatomic versus nonanatomic techniques, and transportal versus outside-in tunnel drilling for ACL reconstruction. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: A search was performed in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to August 2018 for clinical trials comparing anatomic ACL reconstruction (with tunnel positioning demonstrated using gold standard radiologic techniques) with another technique, with a minimum functional and biomechanical follow-up of 6 months. A meta-analysis was performed to compare clinical and functional outcomes between anatomic single- versus double-bundle reconstruction and between anatomic versus nonanatomic techniques, using the risk difference or the mean difference. Risk of bias of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort and case-control studies and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Jadad Score for randomized controlled trials. RESULTS: Included were 15 studies comprising 1290 patients (follow-up, 12-36 months). No significant differences favoring anatomic double-bundle over anatomic single-bundle reconstruction or outside-in over transportal techniques were found. The meta-analyses showed significant differences in the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) objective score (risk difference, -0.14; 95% confidence interval, -0.27 to -0.01) favoring anatomic over nonanatomic reconstruction. No statistically significant differences were found between anatomic and nonanatomic surgical techniques on other functional scores or clinical examination outcomes, including the IKDC subjective score, Lysholm score, Tegner score, KT-1000 arthrometer test, or pivot-shift test. CONCLUSION: Double-bundle reconstruction was not superior to the single-bundle technique in clinical and functional outcomes. Anatomic ACL reconstruction shows significantly superior results over nonanatomic ACL reconstruction, reinforcing the anatomic technique as the gold standard choice for clinical practice.

Integrating Transwomen and Female Athletes with Differences of Sex Development (DSD) into Elite Competition: The FIMS 2021 Consensus Statement.

Sport is historically designated by the binary categorization of male and female that conflicts with modern society. Sport's governing bodies should consider reviewing rules determining the eligibility of athletes in the female category as there may be lasting advantages of previously high testosterone concentrations for transwomen athletes and currently high testosterone concentrations in differences in sex development (DSD) athletes. The use of serum testosterone concentrations to regulate the inclusion of such athletes into the elite female category is currently the objective biomarker that is supported by most available scientific literature, but it has limitations due to the lack of sports performance data before, during or after testosterone suppression. Innovative research studies are needed to identify other biomarkers of testosterone sensitivity/responsiveness, including molecular tools to determine the functional status of androgen receptors. The scientific community also needs to conduct longitudinal studies with specific control groups to generate the biological and sports performance data for individual sports to inform the fair inclusion or exclusion of these athletes. Eligibility of each athlete to a sport-specific policy needs to be based on peer-reviewed scientific evidence made available to policymakers from all scientific communities. However, even the most evidence-based regulations are unlikely to eliminate all differences in performance between cisgender women with and without DSD and transwomen athletes. Any remaining advantage held by transwomen or DSD women could be considered as part of the athlete's unique makeup.

>Imaging Assessment of the Pubis in Soccer Players.

Objective To compare the accuracy of ultrasound (US) with that of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the detection of aponeurosis lesions of the rectus abdominis/adductor longus muscles, to study the characteristics of the athletes and imaging findings associated with pubalgia, and to demonstrate the importance of each method in evaluating this condition. Materials and methods The present study was conducted from 2011 to 2016 with 39 professional soccer players: 15 with pubalgia and 24 without pubalgia. Age, field position, body mass index (BMI), weekly training load, career length, and history of thigh/knee injury and lower back pain were recorded. The following tests were performed: radiographs (anteroposterior view of the pelvis in standing and flamingo positions) to evaluate hip impingement, sacroiliac joint, and pubic symphysis instability; US to analyze the common aponeurosis of the rectus abdominis/adductor longus muscles and inguinal hernias; and MRI for pubic bone degenerative alterations and edema, and lesions in the adductor and rectus abdominis muscles and their aponeurosis. Results There was an association between pubalgia, high BMI ( p = 0.032) and muscle alterations ( p < 0.001). Two patients with pubalgia had inguinal hernias and one patient with pubalgia and two controls had sports hernias. Pubic degenerative changes were frequent in both groups. Aponeurosis lesions were more frequent in patients with pain. The US detection had 44.4% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Conclusion The evaluation of athletic pubalgia should be performed with radiography, US, and MRI. High BMI, muscle injuries, geodes, and osteophytes are findings associated with pubalgia; US has low sensitivity to detect injuries of the common aponeurosis of the rectus abdominis/adductor longus muscles.

Infrared thermography study as a complementary method of screening and prevention of muscle injuries: pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate thermography application as a complementary method in preventing muscle injury in professional soccer players. METHODS: A longitudinal prospective study with 28 professional soccer players that composed a first division of Brazilian's soccer team between 2015 and 2016. In both seasons (2015 and 2016), muscle injuries were documented and classified in grade of severity, by ultrasound. During the following season (2016), infrared medical thermography was applied twice a week (48 hours after game) and if a difference of temperature was detected higher than 0.4°C, a prevention protocol was initiated. Muscle injuries in 2016 were documented. RESULTS: In 2015, the total number of muscle injuries was 11. In 2016, the total number of muscle injuries was 4 (p=0.04). It represents an incidence/player of 78% in 2015 and 28% in 2016, corresponding to a decrease of 64% in 2016. Seven players played in the first team in both seasons. Among these seven players, muscle injuries were reduced from 8 (in 2015) to 3 (in 2016)-a decrease of 63% in the season we used thermographic monitoring (p=0.06). CONCLUSION: The pilot data provide a promising catalyst for a rigorous RCT that could examine whether thermography can contribute to a muscle injury prevention programme.

4-domain sports prom translation and cultural adaptation into portuguese / 4-domain sports prom: traducción y adaptación cultural al portugués / 4-domain sports prom: tradução e adaptação cultural para a língua portuguesa

ABSTRACT Introduction: The literature presents several scientifically validated and cross-culturally adapted questionnaires in the area of orthopedics and Sports Medicine scientifically validated and cross-culturally adapted. However, they are anatomically specific, and do not consider the specific needs of athletes. The "4-Domain PROM for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) is the first questionnaire, in the literature (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), designed to assess athletes and highly active sports practitioners, and their specificities. physical and psychological. It comprises four domains: athlete without injury, after sports injury, expectation of treatment, athlete's assessment of the treatment received. Objectives: This work aims to carry out the translation and cross-cultural adaptation (TCA) to the Portuguese language. Methods: The questionnaire was self-administered by 50 participants, regular physical and sports activities practitioners. The translation and cultural adaptation process involved six steps: translation; synthesis; back translation; pre-test; review by the Expert Committee, clinical application and author approval of the original version. The Equivalence of translation and relevance of questionnaire items were evaluated. RESULTS: The Portuguese version of the 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM had a translation equivalence of 0.94, and item relevance was 0.98, while the percentage of agreement between patients for understanding was 0.98. Conclusion: The translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the 4 Domain Sports PROM into the Portuguese version proved to be understandable and reproducible in all questionnaire domains (agreement above 90% and content validity index of 100%) to assess the treatment of the population of athletes and regular sports practitioners. Level of Evidence II; A cross-sectional qualitative study.

RESUMEN Introducción: La literatura presenta varios cuestionarios científicamente validados y transculturalmente adaptados en el área de la ortopedia y Medicina del Deporte. Sin embargo, son anatómicamente específicos y no consideran las necesidades específicas de los atletas. El "4-Domain PROM for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) es el primer cuestionario, en la literatura (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), diseñado para evaluar atletas y practicantes de deportes altamente activos, y sus especificidades físicas y psicológicas. Comprende cuatro dominios: atleta sin lesión, después de una lesión deportiva, expectativa de tratamiento, evaluación del atleta sobre el tratamiento recibido. Objetivos: El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar la traducción y adaptación transcultural (TCA) a la lengua portuguesa. Métodos: El cuestionario fue autoadministrado por 50 participantes, practicantes habituales de actividades físicas y deportivas. El proceso de traducción y adaptación cultural involucró seis pasos: traducción; síntesis; traducción inversa; prueba previa; revisión por el comité de expertos; aplicación clínica y aprobación del autor de la versión original. Se evaluaron la equivalencia de traducción y la relevancia de los ítems del cuestionario. Resultados: La versión portuguesa del 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM tuvo una equivalencia de traducción de 0,94 y la relevancia de los ítems fue de 0,98, mientras que el porcentaje de acuerdo entre los pacientes para la comprensión fue de 0,98. Conclusión: La traducción y adaptación transcultural del 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM al portugués amplía las posibilidades de evaluar los diferentes momentos que involucran el tratamiento de lesiones deportivas, ya que este cuestionario fue diseñado para capturar datos sobre la percepción de los pacientes antes de la lesión, después de la lesión, expectativa y evaluación del trato recibido en deportistas y practicantes habituales de actividad física. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudio Cualitativo Transversal.

RESUMO Introdução: A literatura apresenta diversos questionários cientificamente validados e adaptados transculturalmente na área de na Ortopedia e Medicina Esportiva validados cientificamente e adaptados transculturalmente. Entretanto, eles são anatomicamente específicos, e não consideram as necessidades especificas dos atletas. O "4-Domain PROM for Orthopedic and Sports Medicine" (4-Domain Sports PROM) é o primeiro questionário, na literatura (International Journal of Sports Medicine - 2021), concebido para avaliar atletas e praticantes de esportes altamente ativos, e suas especificidades físicas e psicológicas. Ele compreende quatro domínios: atleta sem lesão, após lesão esportiva, expectativa do tratamento, avaliação do atleta sobre o tratamento recebido. Objetivos: O objetivo deste trabalho é realizar a tradução e a adaptação transcultural (TCA) à língua portuguesa. Métodos: O questionário foi autoadministrado por 50 participantes, praticantes regulares de atividades físicas e esportivas. O processo de tradução e adaptação cultural envolveu seis etapas: tradução; síntese; retrotradução; pré-teste; revisão pelo comitê de experts; aplicação clínica e aprovação do autor da versão original. Foi avaliado a Equivalência da tradução e relevância de itens do questionário. Resultados: A versão em português do 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM apresentou equivalência da tradução de 0,94 e relevância dos itens foi de 0,98, enquanto a porcentagem de concordância entre os pacientes para compreensão foi de 0,98. Conclusão: A tradução e adequação cultural do 4-DOMAIN SPORTS PROM para língua portuguesa mostrou-se compreensível e reprodutibilidade adequada em todos os domínios do questionário (concordância acima de 90% e Índice de Validade de Conteúdo de 100%) para avaliar o tratamento de população de indivíduos atletas e praticantes regulares de esportes. Nível de Evidência II; Estudo Qualitativo Transversal.

Peptide glutamine supplementation for tolerance of intermittent exercise in soccer players.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether supplementation of carbohydrate together with peptide glutamine would increase exercise tolerance in soccer players. METHODS: Nine male soccer players (mean age: 18.4 +/- 1.1 years; body mass: 69.2 +/- 4.6 kg; height: 175.5 +/- 7.3 cm; and maximum oxygen consumption of 57.7 +/- 4.8 ml x kg(-1) x min(-1)) were evaluated. All of them underwent a cardiopulmonary exercise test and followed a protocol that simulated the movements of a soccer game in order to evaluate their tolerance to intermittent exercise. By means of a draw, either carbohydrate with peptide glutamine (CARBOGLUT: 50 g of maltodextrin + 3.5 g of peptide glutamine in 250 ml of water) or carbohydrate alone (CARBO: 50 g of maltodextrin in 250 ml of water) was administered in order to investigate the enhancement of the soccer players' performances. The solution was given thirty minutes before beginning the test, which was performed twice with a one-week interval between tests. RESULTS: A great improvement in the time and distance covered was observed when the athletes consumed the CARBOGLUT mixture. Total distance covered was 12750 +/- 4037m when using CARBO, and 15571 +/- 4184m when using CARBOGLUT (p<0.01); total duration of tolerance was 73 +/- 23 min when using CARBO and 88 +/- 24 min when using CARBOGLUT (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: The CARBOGLUT mixture was more efficient in increasing the distance covered and the length of time for which intermittent exercise was tolerated. CARBOGLUT also reduced feelings of fatigue in the players compared with the use of the CARBO mixture alone.

Aerobic fitness in professional soccer players after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Although anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is considered a successful procedure in restoring knee stability, few studies have addressed the issue of aerobic capacity after ACL surgery. Soccer players need technical, tactical and physical skills to succeed, such as good knee function and aerobic capacity. Our purpose is to evaluate aerobic fitness in ACL injured professional football players and six months after ACL reconstruction compared to a control group. Twenty athletes with ACL injury were evaluated and underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstrings autograft, and were compared to twenty healthy professional soccer players. The methods used to evaluate aerobic fitness were maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) and ventilatory thresholds with a treadmill protocol, before and six months after surgery, compared to a control group. Knee function questionnaires, isokinetic strength testing and body composition evaluation were also performed. RESULTS: Median ACL-injured patients age was 21 years old, and controls 20.5 years old. (n.s.). Preoperative VO2max in the ACL injured group was 45.2 ± 4.3 mL/kg/min, postoperative 48.9 ± 3.8 mL/kg/min and controls 56.9 ± 4.2 mL/kg/min. (p< .001 in all comparisons). Body composition evaluation was similar in all situations. Knee function questionnaires and quadriceps peak torque deficit improved after surgery but were significantly lower compared to controls. CONCLUSION: Aerobic fitness is significantly reduced in professional soccer players with ACL injury, and six months of rehabilitation was not enough to restore aerobic function after ACL reconstruction, compared to non-injured players of the same level.

Determination of cervical stenosis in rugby players using an alternative radiographic method.

PURPOSE: To find a radiographic method that best correlates with the mean subaxial cervical space available for the cord (MSCSAC) by using a fixed size parameter as radiographic reference, in contrast to the use of vertebral bodies as reference in the mean subaxial cervical Torg ratio (MTorg). METHODS: The study was approved by an institutional review board and written informed consent was obtained. Radiographs and cervical neck MRI were obtained from 18 male rugby athletes (age 18-30 years). Rheumatic disease, symptomatic cervical orthopaedic disease and previous cervical injury were used as exclusion criteria. MSCSAC and MTorg were calculated for each individual as the space available for the cord and Torg ratio averages from C3 to C6, respectively. A new radiographic method, using a metal bar as a size parameter (the corrected diameter of the cervical canal - CDCC), was also calculated for each individual, as well as its average from C3 to C6 (mean corrected diameter of the cervical canal - MCDCC). Values obtained for MCDCC and MTorg were correlated with those obtained by the MSCSAC using Pearson's coefficient. RESULTS: Four volunteers were excluded due to previous cervical injury. In total, 14 subjects had their radiographs and MRIs analysed. Pearson's correlation between MSCSAC and MTorg was 0.5706 (p=0.033). The correlation between MSCSAC and MCDCC was 0.6903 (p=0.006). CONCLUSION: MCDCC correlates better than MTorg with MSCSAC and may be a better radiographic option than MTorg for cervical stenosis evaluation.