The application of a return to performance pathway for an international soccer player recovering from ankle syndesmosis stabilization in time for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. A Case Report.

Abstract

A 26-year-old male international soccer player suffered a West Point Ankle Grade III syndesmosis injury leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Following surgical stabilization, the player completed an eleven-phase return-to-performance (RTPerf) pathway designed to ensure rapid and safe return to play. The pathway employs distinct phases that incorporate clinical, psychological, and sports-specific criteria to inform decision making throughout the process. This case report outlines the phases and criteria used in conjunction with shared decision-making by the interdisciplinary team (IDT) to ensure a successful return to play at the highest level. The effectiveness of this pathway was demonstrated by the player competing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.