Return to Play After Exertional Rhabdomyolysis
Objective: To outline a 4-phase progressive program that safely and successfully enabled athletes to return to sport without recurrence of exertional rhabdomyolysis symptoms. Background: In January 2011, a large cluster of National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I football athletes were evaluated and treated for exertional rhabdomyolysis. After the athletes were treated, the athletic trainers and sports medicine providers were challenged to develop a safe return-to-play program because of the lack of specific reports in the medical literature to direct such activities. Treatment: A progressive 4-phase program based on existing recommendations, including guidelines for continued clinical and laboratory monitoring. Conclusions: Although the actual process of reintegrating players will differ based on each athlete's unique circumstances, this program provides a safe and effective foundation that can be modified based on the response to activity and sport.