Contextual considerations using the ′control-chaos continuum′ for return to sport in elite football - Part 1: Load planning. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taberner, M.; Allen, T.; O'keefe, J.; Cohen, D.D.
• Is Part Of: Physical therapy in sport. Volume 53(2022)
• Page Start: 67
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: Elite football -- Return to sport -- 'Control-chaos continnum' -- Contextual factors; Sports physical therapy -- Periodicals; Sports injuries -- Patients -- Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- diagnosis -- Periodicals; Athletic Injuries -- therapy -- Periodicals; Physical Therapy -- Periodicals; Sports Medicine -- Periodicals; 615.82088796
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2021.10.015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1466-853X

Abstract

Abstract: The 'control-chaos continnum' is an adaptable framework developed to guide the on-pitch rehabilitation process in elite football. One of the key objectives of the continuum is to progressively return players to their preinjury chronic running load, while incorporating the qualitative aspects of movement and cognitive stresses integral to competitive match-play. Whilst injury and player-specific considerations are key to an individualised rehabilitation approach, a host of contextual factors also play an important role in return to sport (RTS) planning. In this article, we highlight some key intrinsic and extrinsic contextual factors for the practitioner to consider in the RTS planning process to help mitigate reinjury risk upon a return to team training. While a return to chronic running load is generally a critical component of the framework, we highlight circumstances in elite football where it is a less relevant factor in RTS decision-making.