Physical Fitness of an Active Soldier: A Case Study
Session
Sport, Health and Society
Description
The aim of this case study is to document and evaluate the rehabilitation and longterm functional recovery of a 26-year-old active-duty soldier after a Grade II left hamstring strain, with specific focus on post-injury physical level and return-to-duty readiness. The study assesses the effectiveness of a structured physiotherapy protocol and quantifies postrehabilitation outcomes using objective performance tools. Methods: Case Study Report model. A three-month, phase-based rehabilitation program was implemented, including progressive strength, mobility, and neuromuscular training. The client’s progress was monitored through subjective reports and clinical assessments. One-year postinjury, functional outcomes were evaluated using the Optojump system (including countermovement, squat, and continuous jump tests) and Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) torque-angle testing to assess eccentric strength and asymmetry Results: Post-rehabilitation testing indicated strong vertical jump performance, good postural control, and improved functional mobility. However, endurance tests revealed declining performance over repeated efforts, and Nordic testing showed mild eccentric strength asymmetry between the injured and uninjured legs. A 449.8 N·m torque difference and biomechanical imbalance were noted in the left hamstring, indicating incomplete strength recovery despite functional gains Conclusion: The rehabilitation protocol effectively restored functional capacity and allowed return to high-level physical activity. However, persistent eccentric strength deficits highlight the need for long-term follow-up and continued eccentric loading to prevent reinjury. This case emphasizes the value of tailored rehabilitation and objective performance testing in managing hamstring injuries in tactical athletes.
Keywords:
Hamstring strain, Muscle tear (Grade II), Hip extension, Knee flexion, Rehabilitation, Optojump assessment, Functional recovery
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.306
Recommended Citation
Berisha, Milaim and Miftari, Florent, "Physical Fitness of an Active Soldier: A Case Study" (2025). UBT International Conference. 3.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/SHS/3
Physical Fitness of an Active Soldier: A Case Study
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
The aim of this case study is to document and evaluate the rehabilitation and longterm functional recovery of a 26-year-old active-duty soldier after a Grade II left hamstring strain, with specific focus on post-injury physical level and return-to-duty readiness. The study assesses the effectiveness of a structured physiotherapy protocol and quantifies postrehabilitation outcomes using objective performance tools. Methods: Case Study Report model. A three-month, phase-based rehabilitation program was implemented, including progressive strength, mobility, and neuromuscular training. The client’s progress was monitored through subjective reports and clinical assessments. One-year postinjury, functional outcomes were evaluated using the Optojump system (including countermovement, squat, and continuous jump tests) and Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) torque-angle testing to assess eccentric strength and asymmetry Results: Post-rehabilitation testing indicated strong vertical jump performance, good postural control, and improved functional mobility. However, endurance tests revealed declining performance over repeated efforts, and Nordic testing showed mild eccentric strength asymmetry between the injured and uninjured legs. A 449.8 N·m torque difference and biomechanical imbalance were noted in the left hamstring, indicating incomplete strength recovery despite functional gains Conclusion: The rehabilitation protocol effectively restored functional capacity and allowed return to high-level physical activity. However, persistent eccentric strength deficits highlight the need for long-term follow-up and continued eccentric loading to prevent reinjury. This case emphasizes the value of tailored rehabilitation and objective performance testing in managing hamstring injuries in tactical athletes.