Ahead of the World Cup final against Argentina, all eyes are on Spain superstar Lamine Yamal. Will an injury scare force him to miss the biggest match of his life?
Speculation mounted on Thursday when Lamine Yamal missed Spain's opening training session in New Jersey. Just days after their semifinal triumph over France, the 19-year-old winger was a notable absentee from the main squad session as Spain began laying the groundwork for the final clash.
The injury scare stems from a hard knock to the thigh Yamal sustained when Lucas Digne inadvertently caught him during a clearance attempt. Though he finished the match, the 19-year-old was spotted limping off the pitch after Spain secured their 2-0 semifinal win over France.
While clearing the air, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente said that Yamal is in "perfect physical condition". He also added that Yamal suffered a "dead leg" during the semifinal match.
What is a dead leg?
A dead leg, also known as a thigh contusion, is quite common in sports. It is caused by a direct impact or trauma to the thigh muscles, resulting in bleeding and bruising. The severity of the injury depends on the force of the impact and the area affected.
It causes significant pain and discomfort. If left untreated, it may cause nerve damage and muscle weakness.
What are the treatments for a dead leg?
In mild cases, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) therapy can be effective in reducing pain and swelling. The therapy involves resting the affected leg and applying ice to the area.
While in severe cases, medical attention may be required. Prescription of anti-inflammatory drugs/steroids may be required to manage the pain and swelling. A surgery may be required to repair any damage to the muscle or blood vessels in some rare cases.
Physical therapy will help to improve the range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the affected leg.
In the case of Yamal, what is more concerning is the hamstring injury Yamal had in April. He had entered the tournament recovering from a severe hamstring injury. He suffered a tear in the biceps femoris muscle of his left hamstring while taking a penalty in Barcelona's La Liga match against Celta Vigo. It was a Grade 2 hamstring injury.
He had to undergo conservative treatment (6-8 weeks) to recover in time for the World Cup.
How severe is a hamstring injury?
A biceps femoris muscle injury depends on the severity of the impact. Grade 1 overstretching, a Grade 2 partial tear, or a Grade 3 complete rupture of the muscle or tendon.
Recovery ranges from a few weeks for minor strains to 3–6 months for complete ruptures.
A partial tear of the muscle fibres. Pain is more immediate and severe, accompanied by swelling, bruising, and noticeable weakness in the leg. It may cause a limp, and recovery usually takes 4–8 weeks.
