Return Criterion

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To determine if the athlete has progressed through the rehabilitation sufficiently to allow a return to competition, a few basic tests can be employed. These should be designed to test strength, endurance, power, coordination, and agility. A sample progression is detailed below. The athlete must be complete one test without significant pain or limp before progressing to the  next step.

 

  1. Walk with no limp.
  2. Jog with no limp.
  3. Sprint with no limp.
  4. Figure 8 jog and run with no limp.
  5. Quick cut "zig-zag" running with no limp.
  6. Double leg hop.
  7. Single leg hop.
  8. Non-contact sport specific drills.
  9. Contact sport specific drills, and
  10. Return to competition.

If the athlete has sustained an upper extremity injury, the following progression may be employed.

 

  1. Return of normal ROM.
  2. Return of normal strength.
  3. Ability to do mechanically correct two-handed push-up.
  4. Ability to balance on one arm in push-up position.
  5. Ballistic or plyometric push-up.
  6. Return of proper arm mechanics in the sport.
  7. Progress through a long-toss short-toss program.
  8. Return to competition.

 

If these criterion have been answered, the gradual increase in activity does not increase sharp pain and exercise-induced swelling is controlled the athlete should be able to be phased back into competition. Many Athletic Trainers may have one other criterion to satisfy, that is that the athlete must participate in tow full practices prior to being allowed in a game. This is done to help bring back the timing that is necessary in any team sport competition.

The bottom line with any return to competition question is returning the athlete without compromising his/her health or the team. If the athlete is returned too quickly, increasing time loss may result. That is , if an athlete returns too son he/she may miss more time later due to a slower healing process. It is better to miss four or five days in a row that 10 or more days at different times during a three week span.

Finally, when considering a return to play make sure that the physician and parents are in agreement. The physician release is a must legally, and parental cooperation will save headaches down the line.

 

 

©2000 - 2006 David Edell

Information on this site is not a substitute for physician directed care.

Please consult your personal physician for more detailed information

concerning specific injuries or illnesses.

Last Update for AthleticAdvisor.com: 06/04/2006 12:01:52 PM