The Reality of Physical Rehabilitation and Return-to-Play Criteria in Sudanese Premier League Football Clubs

Abstract

This paper aimed to examine the current status of physical rehabilitation and re-rehabilitation in Sudanese Premier League football clubs, identify the most common injuries, describe the rehabilitation methods and tests used, and assess the role of rehabilitation specialists in the return-to-training and return-to-competition process. A descriptive approach was adopted. The sample consisted of 50 specialists in sports rehabilitation and therapy. Data were collected through a questionnaire covering rehabilitation programs, common injuries, rehabilitation methods, assessment tests, the role of the specialist, and rehabilitation constraints. The results showed that player follow-up before return to competition ranked first (90%), while lack of resources was identified as one of the main rehabilitation constraints (86%). The use of physical tests during rehabilitation reached 88%, and physical assessment before return to competition reached 84%. Knee injuries were reported as the most common injuries, followed by ankle/foot injuries and muscle tears. Rehabilitation practices combined medical and physical approaches, with a clear emphasis on physical rehabilitation. The role of the rehabilitation specialist was rated as moderate. The paper recommends structured and progressive written rehabilitation programs, improved rehabilitation resources, a stronger professional role for rehabilitation specialists, and multidimensional return-to-training and return-to-competition criteria covering clinical status, strength, range of motion, functional tests, football-specific performance, and psychological readiness.