Osteitis pubis: can early return to elite competition be contemplated?

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Osteitis pubis is a prevalent degenerative condition affecting the pubic symphysis in elite athletes.
• It involves pain and dysfunction of the pubic symphysis and associated soft tissues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the diagnostic process for osteitis pubis in elite athletes.
• To describe a tailored rehabilitation protocol for athletes with osteitis pubis.
• To compare recovery times and return-to-competition timelines across different sports.

Main Methods:

• Six elite athletes (soccer, basketball, rugby) diagnosed with osteitis pubis (Stage III-IV) were included.
• A baseline lumbo-pelvic assessment was performed.
• The Verrall rehabilitation protocol was adapted individually for each athlete.

Main Results:

• Recovery stages: Stage 1 (rest) 26±5 days, Stage 2 (pain-free running) 18±5 days, Stage 3 (squad training) 63±7 days, Stage 4 (return to competition) 86±15 days.
• Soccer players had longer return-to-competition times compared to basketball and rugby players.
• No recurrences were reported at a 2-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

• The presented rehabilitation protocol ensures a safe return to elite sports.
• Recovery duration appears longer for football (soccer) players and may increase with age.
• Individualized adaptation of the protocol is key for successful outcomes.