Optimizing Injury Prevention and Treatment for Sustainable Physical Activity and Sports Participation

Research line 2 focuses on a second major societal problem, injury management. Participation in physical activity and sport is crucial for population health but is associated with high risk of injury More than 5 million active people in the Netherlands sustained an injury in 2023, and 60% of them received medical care for their injury. More than 200,000 people stop physical activity each year in the Netherlands because of injuries. Both acute (e.g., ligament tears) and chronic (e.g., tendon disorders) injuries negatively affect health-related outcomes, reduce participation in work and leisure activities, and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. Effective injury prevention and treatment strategies can yield substantial health and socioeconomic benefits, including reduced long-term healthcare costs, maintaining work productivity, and improving quality of life. This research line focuses on the prevention and treatment of sports injuries through clinically applied studies. We increasingly integrate innovative technologies and multidisciplinary approaches to enhance both the research process and clinical relevance. A key aim of this research line is to ensure that new scientific insights are effectively translated into patient-centred care.