Infrared Thermography for Injury Risk Detection, Return to Play and Recovery Individualization in Sports
摘要
This chapter examines the evolving role of infrared thermography (IRT) in elite sports, integrating both medical and performance perspectives. We explore the physiological principles behind IRT and its key applications, including injury prevention (initial evaluation, injury risk assessment, and treatment adaptation), injury management (diagnostic support and return to play), and fatigue identification (individualization of recovery strategies). Drawing from extensive research and professional experience with elite athletes and teams across various sports, we demonstrate how IRT, when applied with standardized protocols, provides a non-invasive, rapid, and objective method to monitor and manage injury risk, optimize recovery, and enhance performance. These insights are further strengthened by a growing body of evidence, validating IRT’s effectiveness in sports science.