Evaluation of a prospective interdisciplinary assessment of return to play in male professional rugby union following lower-limb injury: A pilot study

Abstract

The return-to-play process is multifactorial, requiring input from multiple disciplines for rehabilitation. This pilot study used a prospective interdisciplinary approach to assess male professional Rugby Union players' (n ​= ​7) rehabilitation following a non-contact lower-limb injury. Kinetic and self-efficacy assessments were conducted across three rehabilitation phases (acute, middle, late). Biomechanical changes (p ​< ​0.05) were observed across all phases; alongside self-efficacy increases. Moderate-to-strong positive relationships (r ​= ​0.77–0.80) were found between kinetic and self-efficacy changes. Practitioners should incorporate both measures throughout rehabilitation, as each offers distinct insights into recovery despite their high correlation. An interdisciplinary approach ensures a comprehensive assessment, enhancing players’ rehabilitation outcomes.