Clinics in sports medicine
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Over the years a variety of cartilage restorative procedures have been developed for athletes to address focal, full-thickness cartilaginous defects in the knee joint, including microfracture, osteochondral autografts, osteochondral allografts, autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), and most recently, next-generation ACI involving scaffolds or cell-seeded scaffolds. Since its introduction, ACI has yielded some very promising results in athletes and nonathletes alike. ⋯ A patient-, lesion-, and sports-specific approach is required on the part of the trainer or physical therapist to gradually restore knee joint function and strength so that the athlete may be able to return to competitive play. This article reviews the rehabilitation protocols for injured athletes following an ACI procedure.
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The evaluation and diagnosis of turf toe injuries is improving as it becomes a more recognized pattern of injury to the hallux metatarsophalangeal joint. With an understanding of the anatomy of the injury and the ability to focus on important diagnostic and radiographic clues, turf toe can be diagnosed, assessed, and treated accurately, with surgical repair when indicated. Regardless of the grade of injury, rehabilitation of the athlete under the guidance of a physical therapist or athletic trainer is critical to complete recovery. With appropriate care, athletes can successfully return to play and efficiently reach their preinjury level of participation.