Purpose:
To analyze ACL injury incidence, return to play, and performance by position in Major League Soccer.
Summary:
The study demonstrated that while overall RTP times have improved, position-specific performance outcomes vary significantly, with forwards exhibiting long-term deficits compared with midfielders and defenders.
Key Takeaways:
• This sports epidemiology study examines ACL injury rates, return to play, and performance metrics in professional soccer players over a 10-year period.
• It is useful for high-level athlete counseling because it links injury to both availability and post-return performance expectations.
• These findings suggest that position-specific rehabilitation protocols may be beneficial for athlete education in RTP and for potential prevention strategies.
Click here for the abstract.
Bibliography:
Forsythe B, Hand C, Bohn C, et al. ACL injuries in Major League Soccer: a 10-year analysis of injury rate and return to play, and performance metrics by player position. Orthop J Sports Med. 2025;13(12):23259671251399842. doi:10.1177/23259671251399842