UPDATES ON HAMSTRING INJURIES IN SOCCER PLAYERS

Abstract

This study aimed to identify updates on the prevention and rehabilitation of hamstring injuries in soccer players, as well as to investigate the risk factors related to these injuries. This is a narrative literature review, of a qualitative nature, carried out through searches in the PubMed, SciELO, Google Scholar, BVS, and PEDro databases. Articles published between 2010 and 2025, available in full text and related to the proposed theme, were included. The literature showed that factors such as muscle fatigue, neuromuscular control deficit, muscle imbalances, and high biomechanical demand are directly associated with the onset of injuries. In addition, the studies demonstrated that physiotherapy interventions based on eccentric strengthening, neuromuscular training, functional exercises, and preventive programs show positive results in reducing recurrences and ensuring a safe return to sport. Therefore, it can be concluded that physiotherapy plays a fundamental role in the prevention and rehabilitation of hamstring injuries in general, but evidence regarding this approach in soccer players can still be considered scarce.