Muscle injuries of the lower extremity: a comparison between young and old male elite soccer players

Purpose The aim of this study was to make a comparison between players in two age groups in an elite male soccer team regarding injury localisation within the muscle–tendon unit, injury size and muscle group in terms of muscle injuries of the lower extremity. Methods Cohort study based on data collected from a Swedish elite male soccer team during the seasons 2007–2012. In total, 145 muscle injuries were included. Injury localisation to the tendon or muscle, the size of haematoma and the affected muscle group were assessed using ultrasound. Age comparison was made between younger players (≤23 years) and older players (>23 years). Results No difference regarding injury localisation to either the tendon or the muscle, or the size of haematoma between the two age groups was found. However, the older group of players suffered a significantly higher number of injuries to the triceps surae than the younger players ( p = 0.012). Conclusions In a Swedish team of male soccer players at elite level, there was no difference between players 23 years or younger and players older than 23 years, in terms of injury distribution to muscles or tendons. Players older than 23 years sustained more injuries to triceps surae when compared with players 23 years or younger. The clinical relevance is to pay attention to muscle function of triceps surae in older players and to screen those players who may need an injury prevention programme. Level of evidence II.