Return to Play Criteria Designed To Minimize Risk of Re-Injury

Return to sports after an injury is a stepwise process, says Eric Laudano, M.H.S., ATC, head athletic trainer at the University of Pennsylvania, designed to minimize the chances of re-injury. Typically, return to play criteria is to ensure that the athlete is pain free; has decreased swelling at the site of injury; has increased range of motion; that muscle strength is equal to the uninjured side; and is using proper mechanics.