TOTBİD Derleme Dergisi

TOTBİD Derleme Dergisi

2026, Cilt 25, Sayı, 1     (Sayfalar: 099-111)

Rehabilitation after knee injuries in athletes: Evidence-based protocols and return to sports

Seçkin Şenışık 1

1 Ege Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Spor Hekimliği Ana Bilim Dalı, İzmir

DOI: 10.5578/totbid.derleme.dergisi.2026.14
Görüntüleme: 17
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İndirme : 7

Knee injuries in athletes are one of the most significant problems affecting athletes` long-term health and performance after returning to sports. To ensure the athlete`s safe return to sports and reduce the risk of re-injury, a personalized rehabilitation program must be implemented. The rehabilitation process is a long and structured process, evaluated through periodic checkups and guided by the achievement of progressive goals. Adopting a target-oriented rehabilitation approach is crucial for decision-making during recovery. The rehabilitation process should begin immediately after the injury, even if the athlete requires surgery. The goal in the early stages is to eliminate swelling and pain and increase joint range of motion. As desired goals are achieved, the program progresses to address functional deficiencies by adding exercises such as strength, proprioception, jumping, and agility. In the final stage, tests that evaluate physical performance, sport-specific skills, and psychological preparedness are administered to determine the athlete`s return to sport. As a result of these tests, the athlete who meets the necessary criteria is allowed to return to sports.

Anahtar Kelimeler : athlete; knee injuries; return to sport; rehabilitation