Myofascial Release Combined With FIFA 11+: Effects on Hamstring Flexibility and Injury Risk

Although the FIFA 11+ program has been widely studied, there is limited evidence on its effectiveness in addressing hamstring injury-related factors combined with myofascial release among academy-level male football players in Pakistan. Most existing research focuses on professional athletes from developed countries and often lacks detailed assessments of neuromuscular and biomechanical components. Additionally, few studies have employed a randomized control design. This study will address these gaps by evaluating the FIFA 11+ program using validated assessment tools within a local youth football population. This study will be significant, as it focuses on an underrepresented group, academy-level male football players in Pakistan, where data on injury prevention remains scarce. By examining the effects of the FIFA 11+ program on hamstring-related biomechanical and neuromuscular outcomes, the study will provide insights beyond basic injury incidence. The results will help inform effective, evidence-based warm-up strategies adapted to the local football environment. Hamstring injuries are a frequent concern in football, often impairing player performance and longevity. A survey of male footballers from Peshawar clubs found a 53.3% prevalence of lower limb injuries, highlighting high injury risk at the grassroots level in Pakistan. While FIFA 11+ has demonstrated strong preventive outcomes, its direct impact on flexibility is limited. Myofascial release offers an evidence-based method for improving hamstring extensibility, which could reduce strain risk. By combining MFR with FIFA 11+, this study addresses two major modifiable risk factors, flexibility deficits and poor neuromuscular control, thereby potentially reducing injuries more effectively than either approach alone.