ATUAÇÃO FISIOTERAPÊUTICA NA PREVENÇÃO DE LESÃO MENISCAL EM JOGADORES DE FUTEBOL: UMA REVISÃO BIBLIOGRÁFICA INTEGRATIVA

Meniscal injuries are common among football players due to the high physical demands and repetitive movements required by the sport. Given the importance of preventing and treating these injuries, this study aims to explore physiotherapeutic treatment in football, as the role of physiotherapists has been gradually expanding in sports, seeking more effective approaches to prevent these injuries. The objective was to analyze the role of physiotherapy in preventing meniscal injuries in professional football players of both sexes. An integrative literature review was conducted using the PICO methodology, covering studies published in the last five years. The results indicate that 193 articles were initially identified, of which 5 randomized clinical trials were selected after applying inclusion criteria. Physical therapy, through muscle strengthening exercises, proprioception, and other techniques, can be as effective as surgery in the recovery of athletes. In addition to helping prevent new injuries, physical therapy can, in some cases, replace the need for surgical interventions. It is concluded that physiotherapy is a viable strategy for preventing and treating meniscal injuries, although more research is needed to understand its long-term effects.