Prophylactic Training in Asymptomatic Soccer Players with Ultrasonographic Abnormalities in Achilles and Patellar Tendons

Abstract

This study demonstrates that with the use of ultrasonography, tendon changes in soccer players can be diagnosed before they become symptomatic. The prophylactic eccentric training and stretching program reduces the risk of developing ultrasonographic abnormalities in the patellar tendons but has no positive effects on the risk of injury. On the contrary, in asymptomatic players with ultrasonographically abnormal patellar tendons, prophylactic eccentric training and stretching increased the injury risk.