What is the minimum injured limb functional recovery before return to sport?

What is the minimum injured limb functional recovery before return to sport?

• A. 50%
• B. 60%
• C. 70%
• D. 80%

Answer: (D)

Before returning to sport, the goal is for the injured limb to function nearly as well as the uninjured one. The minimum threshold commonly used is about 80%, meaning the injured side should achieve roughly four-fifths of the strength, power, and control of the healthy side on key tests. This level of symmetry helps athletes meet the demands of sport and lowers the risk of reinjury, because larger imbalances are linked with poorer outcomes. Clinicians assess this with limb symmetry index on strength and functional tests (like hop tests), along with criteria such as no pain, full range of motion, and no swelling. If the injured limb is below 80%, return to sport is typically postponed until adequate recovery is demonstrated, with some cases aiming higher for high-demand activities.

Before returning to sport, the goal is for the injured limb to function nearly as well as the uninjured one. The minimum threshold commonly used is about 80%, meaning the injured side should achieve roughly four-fifths of the strength, power, and control of the healthy side on key tests. This level of symmetry helps athletes meet the demands of sport and lowers the risk of reinjury, because larger imbalances are linked with poorer outcomes. Clinicians assess this with limb symmetry index on strength and functional tests (like hop tests), along with criteria such as no pain, full range of motion, and no swelling. If the injured limb is below 80%, return to sport is typically postponed until adequate recovery is demonstrated, with some cases aiming higher for high-demand activities.