Obturator internus injury in a professional football player with no time loss: an uncommon injury reflecting shared decision-making

A male professional football player (left-back in Portugal’s top division) in his 20s sustained an obturator internus muscle injury during a forceful kicking motion. MRI confirmed the obturator internus injury, a very rare diagnosis in sports. In contrast to typical management of muscle injuries, the player continued to train and compete with no missed matches. He was closely monitored with daily assessments of pain, hip function and on-field performance. Within 48 hours, he achieved full, pain-free recovery, and his performance remained unaffected throughout. This case highlights the uncommon nature of obturator internus injuries and its rapid recovery. It underscores the value of a tailored, shared decision-making approach that balanced the athlete’s health and the demands of elite competition, challenging the assumption that all muscle injuries necessitate prolonged rest.