A systematic review of the best-practice return to play programs in tennis players.

Abstract

Tennis is one of the most practiced sports in the world and with high injury rates across professional players and effective strategies to return to sport after an injury are necessary. Thus, this systematic review aims to assess and identify the most effective and evidence-based protocols developed during the return to play process in tennis players. The search was conducted using Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus electronic databases. Studies that report a structure training program after suffering an injury in tennis players published before October 12, 2023, were identified. A total of 1164 studies were identified, after removal of duplicates and assess full text for eligibility 5 studies were included in the systematic review. RTP (return-to-play process) should be divided in three phases. Firstly, training should be focused on restoring ROM through mobility exercises, the inclusion of technical training are also available. Following, prioritize reaching pre-injury strength levels, integrating more technical training increasing hitting velocity. Finally, include serve technique while gradually increasing velocity. Trainers and coaching staff professionals' needs consider that the duration and progression of RTP should be tailored to the individual characteristics of each player.