Arnhild Bakken

• Madssen, Erik; Sverre, Elise Christine Bjørkholen; Nyen, Johanne E; Holmager, Therese L F; Kristensen, Anna M D & Bakken, Arnhild [Show all 13 contributors for this article] (2026). Beta-blocker therapy and physical activity after myocardial infarction: a preplanned sub-study of the BETAMI trial. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC). ISSN 2047-4873. doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag412. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Aims To investigate the effect of long-term beta-blocker therapy on physical activity (PA) level after myocardial infarction (MI) in patients without heart failure. Method The BETAMI trial, randomised patients hospitalised with a MI without heart failure (LVEF ≥40%) to beta-blocker or no beta-blocker. In this pre-planned sub-study PA level was assessed by guideline-recommended PA level (≥30 minutes moderate activity ≥5 days/week) or not and self-reported hours/week with light to moderate and vigorous PA. Between-group differences in PA from baseline before randomisation to 18-months were estimated by linear mixed models. Exploratory analysis assessed treatment effects on a composite of all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events using Cox proportional hazards model. Results Of the 2867 randomised patients, 2185 (76%) responded to the PA questions and were included in this analysis. Mean age was 62.5 (SD 10.1) years, 20.6% were women. No differences in guideline-recommended PA level or mean hours of light to moderate and vigorous PA were reported between the beta-blocker and non-beta-blocker group at baseline or during 18-months follow-up. At 12-month follow-up, 37.0% in the beta-blocker group and 36.7% in the no beta-blocker group reported guideline-recommended PA level (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.69-1.37). Exploratory, hypothesis-generating analyses did not demonstrate a statistically significant interaction (p for interaction = 0.06) between treatment assignment and baseline PA level for recurrent clinical events. Conclusions Beta-blocker therapy did not result in a change in PA level in post-MI patients without heart failure during the 18 months follow-up.

• Kristensen, Anna Meta Dyrvig; Jortveit, Jarle; Holmager, Therese; Atar, Dan; Olsen, Michael Hecht & Bakken, Arnhild [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2026). Outcomes in the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial compared with a Norwegian nationwide myocardial infarction population. European Heart Journal. ISSN 0195-668X. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehag348. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Background and Aims In patients with myocardial infarction (MI), no heart failure, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 40%, the combined BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial showed that beta-blockers reduced the risk of all-cause mortality or major adverse cardiovascular events. This study evaluated the representativeness of the trial. Methods Participants in BETAMI (n = 2867) and DANBLOCK (n = 2707) were compared with a cohort of revascularized MI patients with LVEF ≥40%, and no heart failure from the Norwegian Myocardial Infarction Registry (the NORMI cohort)(n = 20 804). Baseline characteristics were evaluated, and absolute risks of all-cause mortality and/or MI were estimated. A transportability analysis was conducted by weighting the BETAMI-DANBLOCK population according to the NORMI cohort. Results Median age was 66 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 57–74) in the NORMI cohort and 63 years (IQR: 55–70) in BETAMI and DANBLOCK. Patients in the NORMI cohort had a higher prevalence of diabetes, previous coronary artery disease, and LVEF 40–49%, compared with trial participants. At 3-year follow-up, the absolute risk of all-cause mortality or MI was 12.0% in the NORMI cohort, 7.7% in BETAMI, and 7.8% in DANBLOCK. Corresponding risks of MI were 6.3%, 5.6%, and 4.3%, respectively. The treatment effects of beta-blockers were similar when the trial population was weighted according to the characteristics of the NORMI cohort. Conclusions Compared with the NORMI cohort, participants in BETAMI and DANBLOCK were younger, had a lower proportion of certain comorbidities, and experienced a lower risk of all-cause mortality and MI. Despite these differences, the effect of beta-blockers remained consistent when the trial population was weighted according to the NORMI cohort.

• Kristensen, Anna Meta Dyrvig; Rossello, Xavier; Atar, Dan; Yndigegn, Troels; Kimura, Takeshi & Latini, Roberto [Show all 30 contributors for this article] (2025). Beta-Blockers after Myocardial Infarction with Normal Ejection Fraction. New England Journal of Medicine. ISSN 0028-4793. 394(6), p. 540–550. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2512686. Full text in Research Archive
• Rossello, Xavier; Prescott, Eva Irene Bossano; Kristensen, Anna Meta Dyrvig; Latini, Roberto; Fuster, Valentin & Fagerland, Morten [Show all 22 contributors for this article] (2025). β blockers after myocardial infarction with mildly reduced ejection fraction: an individual patient data meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. The Lancet. ISSN 0140-6736. 406(10508), p. 1128–1137. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(25)01592-2. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background The effects of β-blocker therapy on clinical outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction and mildly reduced (40–49%) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) are largely unknown. Four recently conducted randomised trials tested the efficacy of β blockers after a recent myocardial infarction in patients without reduced LVEF (LVEF ≥40%). However, none were individually powered to assess these effects in the subgroup of patients with mildly reduced LVEF. We aimed to assess the efficacy of β blockers in patients with myocardial infarction and mildly reduced LVEF during the index hospitalisation. Methods We conducted an individual patient-level meta-analysis of patients with mildly reduced LVEF and no history or signs of heart failure from four recent clinical trials. These studies were included because they were randomised controlled trials testing long-term effects (median follow-up >1 year) of oral β-blocker therapy in patients who recently had a myocardial infarction (randomisation within 14 days) and had mildly reduced LVEF. No further studies were found in a systematic review (Jan 1, 2020 to June 26, 2025). A one-stage, fixed-effects, Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the treatment effect of β blockers on the predefined primary composite endpoint of all-cause death, new myocardial infarction, or heart failure. All endpoints were independently adjudicated. This meta-analysis was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251023480). Findings 1885 patients with myocardial infarction and mildly reduced LVEF were included in the meta-analysis: 979 from the REBOOT trial, 422 from the BETAMI trial, 430 from the DANBLOCK trial, and 54 from the CAPITAL-RCT trial. Overall, 991 patients were assigned to β blockers and 894 to control (no β blockers). The primary composite endpoint occurred in 106 patients (32·6 events per 1000 patient-years) in the β-blocker group and 129 patients (43·0 per 1000 patient-years) in the no β-blocker group (hazard ratio 0·75 [95% CI 0·58–0·97]; p=0·031). No heterogeneity between the trials (trial-by-treatment pinteraction=0·95) or between countries of enrolment was observed (pinteraction=0·98). Interpretation In patients with acute myocardial infarction with mildly reduced LVEF without history or clinical signs of heart failure, β-blocker therapy was associated with a reduction in the composite of all-cause death, new myocardial infarction, or heart failure. These results extend the known benefits of these agents in patients with myocardial infarction with reduced LVEF to the subgroup with mildly reduced LVEF.

• Munkhaugen, John; Kristensen, Anna Meta D.; Halvorsen, Sigrun; Holmager, Therese; Olsen, Michael Hecht & Bakken, Arnhild [Show all 64 contributors for this article] (2025). Beta-Blockers after Myocardial Infarction in Patients without Heart Failure. New England Journal of Medicine. ISSN 0028-4793. 393(19), p. 1901–1911. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2505985. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The evidence supporting beta-blocker therapy after myocardial infarction was established before the introduction of modern coronary reperfusion therapy and secondary prevention strategies. Methods: In an open-label, randomized trial with blinded end-point evaluation, conducted in Denmark and Norway, we assigned patients who had had a myocardial infarction and who had a left ventricular ejection fraction of at least 40%, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive long-term beta-blocker therapy within 14 days after the event or no beta-blocker therapy. The primary end point was a composite of death from any cause or major adverse cardiovascular events (new myocardial infarction, unplanned coronary revascularization, ischemic stroke, heart failure, or malignant ventricular arrhythmias). Results: A total of 5574 patients underwent randomization and were included in the main analyses - 2783 in the beta-blocker group and 2791 in the no-beta-blocker group. After a median follow-up of 3.5 years (interquartile range, 2.2 to 4.6), a primary end-point event had occurred in 394 patients (14.2%) in the beta-blocker group and in 454 patients (16.3%) in the no-beta-blocker group (hazard ratio, 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75 to 0.98; P = 0.03). Death from any cause occurred in 4.2% of the patients in the beta-blocker group and in 4.4% of those in the no-beta-blocker group; myocardial infarction occurred in 5.0% and 6.7%, respectively (hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.92), unplanned coronary revascularization in 3.9% and 3.9%, ischemic stroke in 1.6% and 1.3%, heart failure in 1.5% and 1.9%, and malignant ventricular arrhythmias in 0.5% and 0.6%. No apparent differences in safety outcomes were observed between the groups. Conclusions: Among patients with a myocardial infarction and a left ventricular ejection fraction of at least 40%, beta-blocker therapy led to a lower risk of death or major adverse cardiovascular events than no beta-blocker therapy

• Engh, Anette; Rueegg, Corina Silvia; Trent, Pernille Kristina Bjerre; Opheim, Linn Øvstebø; Engeskaug, Ida & Nordskar, Nina Jebens [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2025). Physical activity and lower extremity lymphedema among endometrial cancer survivors: A population-based cross-sectional study. Gynecologic Oncology. ISSN 0090-8258. 195, p. 82–88. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2025.03.009. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective The aims of this cross-sectional study were to describe the prevalence of self-reported lower extremity lymphedema (LEL) by different physical activity (PA) levels and to examine if higher levels of PA are associated with lower odds of self-reported LEL among endometrial cancer survivors. Methods Women treated for assumed early-stage endometrial cancer between 2006 and 2021 were invited to complete the Lower Extremity Lymphedema Screening Questionnaire (LELSQ) and the Physical Activity Frequency, Intensity, and Duration (PAFID) questionnaire. Responses of PAFID were converted into metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week (MET-min/week), and participants were categorized into different PA levels: meeting (≥500 MET-min/week) versus not meeting PA guidelines; low active (<500 MET-min/week), active (500–1000 MET-min/week), and high active (>1000 MET-min/week); and PA quartiles. Results Among 1077 included, the prevalence of LEL was 48 %, 32 %, and 32 % among the low active, active, and high active survivors, respectively. Compared to the low active, the active survivors had 40 % lower odds of LEL (OR 0.60, 95 % CI 0.44–0.81), but no further reduction was observed among the high active survivors (OR 0.71, 95 % CI 0.47–1.06). According to PA quartiles, higher PA levels were associated with lower odds of LEL, but not in a linear dose-response way. Conclusion Findings suggest that regular PA according to the current PA guidelines is associated with decreased the odds of self-reported LEL among endometrial cancer survivors; however, causality of association needs to be verified in a longitudinal setting.

• Kristensen, Anna Meta Dyrvig; Munkhaugen, John; Halvorsen, Sigrun; Olsen, Michael Hecht; Bakken, Arnhild & Sehested, Thomas Steen Gyldenstierne [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2023). The Danish-Norwegian randomized trial on beta-blocker therapy after myocardial infarction: Design, rationale, and baseline characteristics. European Heart Journal (EHJ) - Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy. ISSN 2055-6837. 10(3), p. 175–183. doi: 10.1093/ehjcvp/pvad093. Full text in Research Archive
• McCunn, Robert; Blackburne, Colin; Newton, Florence; Carroll, Noël; Bakken, Arnhild & Ryan, Desmond [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2019). Accounting for multiple injuries does not improve the Functional Movement Screen (FMS™) as a tool to identify injury risk among English Premier League academy football players: a 3-season prospective cohort study. Science and medicine in football. ISSN 2473-3938. 3(3), p. 251–254. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2019.1595114. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between FMS™ score and non-contact injury while accounting for participant exposure and multiple injuries to the same player. Materials and methods: Sixty-four players were screened during the preseason period with non-contact injuries and exposure time recorded prospectively for the entirety of three consecutive seasons (2014/15, 2015/16 and 2016/17). One-hundred and eighteen player-season observations were included in the analysis. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were utilized to explore associations between FMS™ composite, individual sub-test scores, the number of sub-test asymmetries and non-contact injury. Results: The FMS™ composite score demonstrated a likely trivial (IRR: 1.05 95%CI: 0.94–1.17) association with non-contact injury. The number of individual sub-test asymmetries and all of the sub-test scores (with the exception of the hurdle step, IRR: 1.58 95%CI: 0.99–2.52) demonstrated unclear associations with non-contact injury. Conclusions: No associations with non-contact injury were observed for the FMS™ composite score, individual sub-test scores or the number of sub-test asymmetries, even when accounting for exposure and multiple injuries to the same player. Practical implications: The FMS™ composite score is likely not useful for injury risk stratification, nor are the individual sub-tests or the number of asymmetries.

• Steenstrup, Sophie E.; Bakken, Arnhild; Bere, Tone Tufte; Patton, Declan A. & Bahr, Roald (2018). Head injury mechanisms in FIS World Cup alpine and freestyle skiers and snowboarders. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 52(1), p. 61–69. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-098240. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  INTRODUCTION: Head injuries represent a concern in skiing and snowboarding, with traumatic brain injuries being the most common cause of death. AIM: To describe the mechanisms of head and face injuries among World Cup alpine and freestyle skiers and snowboarders. METHODS: We performed a qualitative analysis of videos obtained of head and face injuries reported through the International Ski Federation Injury Surveillance System during 10 World Cup seasons (2006-2016). We analysed 57 head impact injury videos (alpine n=29, snowboard n=13, freestyle n=15), first independently and subsequently in a consensus meeting. RESULTS: During the crash sequence, most athletes (84%) impacted the snow with the skis or board first, followed by the upper or lower extremities, buttocks/pelvis, back and, finally, the head. Alpine skiers had sideways (45%) and backwards pitching falls (35%), with impacts to the rear (38%) and side (35%) of the helmet. Freestyle skiers and snowboarders had backwards pitching falls (snowboard 77%, freestyle 53%), mainly with impacts to the rear of the helmet (snowboard 69%, freestyle 40%). There were three helmet ejections among alpine skiers (10% of cases), and 41% of alpine skiing injuries occurred due to inappropriate gate contact prior to falling. Athletes had one (47%) or two (28%) head impacts, and the first impact was the most severe (71%). Head impacts were mainly on snow (83%) on a downward slope (63%). CONCLUSION: This study has identified several characteristics of the mechanisms of head injuries, which may be addressed to reduce risk.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, Abdulaziz & Mosler, Andrea [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2018). Muscle Strength Is a Poor Screening Test for Predicting Lower Extremity Injuries in Professional Male Soccer Players: A 2-Year Prospective Cohort Study. American Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0363-5465. 46(6), p. 1481–1491. doi: 10.1177/0363546518756028. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Lower extremity muscle strength tests are commonly used to screen for injury risk in professional soccer. However, there is limited evidence on the ability of such tests in predicting future injuries. Purpose: To examine the association between hip and thigh muscle strength and the risk of lower extremity injuries in professional male soccer players. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Professional male soccer players from 14 teams in Qatar underwent a comprehensive strength assessment at the beginning of the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. Testing consisted of concentric and eccentric quadriceps and hamstring isokinetic peak torques, eccentric hip adduction and abduction forces, and bilateral isometric adductor force (squeeze test at 45°). Time-loss injuries and exposure in training and matches were registered prospectively by club medical staff throughout each season. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs. Results: In total, 369 players completed all strength tests and had registered injury and exposure data. Of these, 206 players (55.8%) suffered 538 lower extremity injuries during the 2 seasons; acute muscle injuries were the most frequent. Of the 20 strength measures examined, greater quadriceps concentric peak torque at 300 deg/s (HR, 1.005 [95% CI, 1.00-1.01]; P = .037) was the only strength measure identified as significantly associated with a risk of lower extremity injuries in multivariate analysis. Greater quadriceps concentric peak torque at 60 deg/s (HR, 1.004 [95% CI, 1.00-1.01]; P = .026) was associated with the risk of overuse injuries, and greater bilateral adductor strength adjusted for body weight (HR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.57-0.97; P = .032) was associated with a lower risk for any knee injury. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses indicated poor predictive ability of the significant strength variables (area under the curve, 0.45-0.56). Conclusion: There was a weak association with the risk of lower extremity injuries for 2 strength variables: greater quadriceps concentric muscle strength at (1) high and (2) low speeds. These associations were too small to identify an “at-risk” player. Therefore, strength testing, as performed in the present study, cannot be recommended as a screening test to predict injuries in professional male soccer.

• Mosler, Andrea Britt; Weir, Adam; Serner, Andreas; Agricola, Rintje; Eirale, Cristiano & Farooq, Abdulaziz [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2018). Musculoskeletal Screening Tests and Bony Hip Morphology Cannot Identify Male Professional Soccer Players at Risk of Groin Injuries: A 2-Year Prospective Cohort Study. American Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0363-5465. 46(6), p. 1294–1305. doi: 10.1177/0363546518763373. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Musculoskeletal hip/groin screening tests are commonly performed to detect at-risk individuals. Bony hip morphology is considered a potential intrinsic risk factor but has not been examined prospectively. Purpose: To evaluate the association between intrinsic risk factors identified from musculoskeletal and radiographic screening tests and hip/groin injuries leading to time loss from training and/or match play in professional male soccer players. Study Design: Prospective cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: Male professional soccer players, aged ≥18 years, underwent screening specific for hip/groin pain during 2 consecutive seasons of the Qatar Stars League. The screening battery included pain provocation, range of motion, and strength tests as well as a hip radiographic examination. The radiographic examination included an anteroposterior pelvic view and 45° Dunn view, with bony hip morphology determined using quantitative methods. Time-loss (≥1 day) hip/groin injuries and individual player exposure (training and match play) were recorded prospectively, and injuries were categorized as adductor-related, inguinal-related, iliopsoas-related, pubic-related, or hip-related groin pain, or “other,” as recommended in the Doha agreement. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) from univariate and multivariate Cox regression models to assess the relationship between potential risk factors and hip/groin injuries. Results: There were 438 players, completing 609 player seasons, and 113 hip/groin injuries that met the criteria for inclusion, with 85 injuries categorized as adductor-related. The proportion of players with bony morphological variants was the following: cam, 71%; pincer, 5%; and acetabular dysplasia, 13%. Previous hip/groin injuries (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.7) and eccentric adduction strength were associated with the risk of hip/groin injuries. Higher (>1 SD above the mean) than normal eccentric adduction strength was associated with an increased risk for all hip/groin injuries (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0-2.5). Lower (<1 SD below the mean) than normal eccentric adduction strength was associated with an increased risk for adductor-related injuries (HR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0-3.0). No other musculoskeletal screening test or bony hip morphology variables were associated with the injury risk. Conclusion: Previous groin injuries and eccentric adduction strength were associated with the risk of groin injuries. However, these associations were not strong enough to identify an “at-risk” individual, and therefore, musculoskeletal screening tests were not useful to dictate individualized prevention strategies. Bony hip morphology was not associated with the risk of groin injuries.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, Abdulaziz & Tol, Johannes [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2017). Interseason variability of a functional movement test, the 9+ screening battery, in professional male football players. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 51(14), p. 1081–1086. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096570. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The Nine Plus screening battery test (9+) is a functional movement test intended to identify limitations in fundamental movement patterns predisposing athletes to injury. However, the interseason variability is unknown. Aim: To examine the variability of the 9+ test between 2 consecutive seasons in professional male football players. Methods: Asymptomatic Qatar Star League players (n=220) completed the 9+ at the beginning of the 2013 and 2014 seasons. Time-loss injuries in training and matches were obtained from the Aspetar Injury and Illness Surveillance Program. No intervention was initiated between test occasions. Results: A significant increase in the mean total score of 1.6 points (95% CI 1.0 to 2.2, p<0.001) was found from season 1 (22.2±4.1 (SD)) to season 2 (23.8±3.3). The variability was large, as shown by an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.24 (95% CI 0.11 to 0.36) and a minimal detectable change (MDC) of 8.7 points. Of the 220 players, 136 (61.8%) suffered a timeloss injury between the 2 tests. There was an improvement in mean total scores in the injured (+2.0 ±0.4 (SE), p<0.001) group but not in the uninjured group (+0.9±0.5, p=0.089). The variability from season 1 to season 2 was large both in the injured (ICC 0.25, 0.09 to 0.40, MDC 8.3) and uninjured (ICC 0.24, 0.02 to 0.43, MDC 9.1) groups. Conclusions: The 9+ demonstrated substantial intraindividual variability in the total score between 2 consecutive seasons, irrespective of injury. A change above 8 points is necessary to represent a real change in the 9+ test between seasons.

• Dyk, Nicol van; Bahr, Roald; Burnett, Angus F.; Whiteley, Rod; Bakken, Arnhild & Mosler, Andrea [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2017). A comprehensive strength testing protocol offers no clinical value in predicting risk of hamstring injury: a prospective cohort study of 413 professional football players. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 51(23), p. 1695–1702. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-097754. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Hamstring injuries remain prevalent across a number of professional sports. In football, the incidence has even increased by 4% per year at the Champions League level over the last decade. The role of muscle strength or strength ratios and their association with risk of hamstring injury remain restricted by small sample sizes and inconclusive results. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors for hamstring injury in professional football players in an adequately powered, prospective cohort study. Using both established (isokinetic) and novel (eccentric hamstring test device) measures of muscle strength, we aimed to investigate the relationship between these strength characteristics over the entire range of motion with risk of hamstring injury. Methods: All teams (n=18) eligible to compete in the premier football league in Qatar underwent a comprehensive strength assessment during their annual periodic health evaluation at Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital in Doha, Qatar. Variables included isokinetic strength, Nordic hamstring exercise strength and dynamic hamstring: quadriceps ratios. Results: Of the 413 players included (68.2% of all league players), 66 suffered a hamstring injury over the two seasons. Only isokinetic quadriceps concentric at 300°/s (adjusted for bodyweight) was associated with risk of hamstring injury when considered categorically. Age, body mass and playing position were also associated with risk of hamstring injury. None of the other 23 strength variables examined were found to be associated with hamstring injury. Conclusion: The clinical value of isolated strength testing is limited, and its use in musculoskeletal screening to predict future hamstring injury is unfounded.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, Abdulaziz & Tol, Johannes L. [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2017). The functional movement test 9+ is a poor screening test for lower extremity injuries in professional male football players: a 2-year prospective cohort study. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-097307. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The 9+ screening battery test consists of 11 tests to assess limitations in functional movement. Aim: To examine the association of the 9+ with lower extremity injuries and to identify a cut-off point to predict injury risk. Methods: Professional male football players in Qatar from 14 teams completed the 9+ at the beginning of the 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 seasons. Time-loss injuries and exposure in training and matches were registered prospectively by club medical staff during these seasons. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to calculate HR and 95% CI. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated to determine sensitivity and specificity and identify the optimal cut-off point for risk assessment. Results: 362 players completed the 9+ and had injury and exposure registration. There were 526 injuries among 203 players (56.1%) during the two seasons; injuries to the thigh were the most frequent. There was no association between 9+ total score and the risk of lower extremity injuries (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.05, p=0.13), even after adjusting for other risk factors in a multivariate analysis (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.04, p=0.37). ROC curve analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.48, and there was no cut-off point that distinguished injured from non-injured players. Conclusion: The 9+ was not associated with lower extremity injury, and it was no better than chance for distinguishing between injured and uninjured players. Therefore, the 9+ test cannot be recommended as an injury prediction tool in this population.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Adamuz, MC; Tol, Johannes & Whiteley, Rod [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2016). Health conditions detected in a comprehensive periodic health evaluation of 558 professional football players. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 50(18), p. 1142–1150. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2015-095829. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Despite the widespread use of periodic health evaluation (PHE) to detect and prevent injury and illness in athletes, its effectiveness in detecting health conditions and relevant risk factors is still debated. Aim: To assess health conditions detected by a comprehensive PHE in professional male football players and evaluate their consequences for participation clearance. Methods: A total of 558 professional football players in Qatar completed a PHE prior to the 2013 or 2014 seasons: history, general medical (including blood test), cardiovascular (12-lead ECG and echocardiography) and a musculoskeletal examination, including a specific test battery targeting lower extremity strength and flexibility. On the basis of the PHE, players were either cleared or not cleared for participation. Results: In 533 players (95.5%), at least one health condition was detected requiring treatment or follow-up. Vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency (≤30 ng/mL) was the most common medical condition (n=499, 89.4%), followed by hepatitis B non-immunity or infection (n=164, 29.4%). Cardiac screening identified 48 players (8.6%) with one or more abnormal findings (ECG (n=19, 3.4%) and echocardiography (n=14, 2.5%)). Musculoskeletal conditions were observed in 180 players (32.3%); injuries to or strength deficits of the hip/groin and thigh accounted for the largest proportion. Medical clearance was temporarily not given in 69 players (12.4%), while further examinations were being conducted. One player was disqualified from competitive football. Conclusions: PHE revealed a high prevalence of health conditions requiring treatment or follow-up in professional footballers; however, only 12.4% of conditions impacted on final clearance for participation.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, a & Tol, JL [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2016). Inter-season variability of a functional movement test in professional football. In Roi, Giulio Sergio & Villa, Stefano Della (Ed.), Football medicine strategies - Return to play. Calzetti Mariucci. ISSN 9788860284662. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096570. Full text in Research Archive
• Bere, Tone Tufte; Alonso, Juan-Manuel; Wangensteen, Arnlaug; Bakken, Arnhild; Eirale, Cristiano & Dijkstra, H. Paul [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2015). Injury and illness surveillance during the 24th Men's Handball World Championship 2015 in Qatar. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 49(17), p. 1151–1156. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2015-094972. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The IOC encourages international federations to establish systematic athlete injury and illness surveillance programmes. Objective: To describe pattern of injuries and illnesses during the 24th Men's Handball World Championship 2015 by implementing the IOC injury and illness surveillance protocol. Methods: The medical staff of participating teams (n=24) were requested to report all new injuries and illnesses during matches and/or training on a daily basis throughout the event (15 January to 1 February, 2015). Exposure (number of player-hours) during all matches was calculated for all players (n=384) and for each of the 4 player positions (wing, back, line and goalkeeper). Results: Medical staff of all teams submitted 96.7% (n=325) of the daily report forms. In total, 27.1% of the players were injured, and of the 132 injuries reported, 40% were time-loss injuries. The total incidence of injuries was 104.5 per 1000 player-hours. The highest risk of injury was found among line players, and more injuries occurred during the first half of the matches. The most frequent injury location was the ankle, followed by the thigh, knee and head/face. The majority of injuries were contusion, sprain or strain. In total, 10.9% of the players were affected by an illness during the event. Of the 42 cases recorded, 31 (73.8%) were reported as respiratory tract infection. Conclusions: The risk of injury in handball is high among Olympic sports. Preventive measures should focus on contusions, ankle sprains, and thigh muscle strains, as well as measures aimed to reduce upper respiratory tract infections.

• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Adamuz, MC; Tol, JL & Whiteley, R [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2015). What does a comprehensive periodic health evaluation in football players detect? In Roi, Giulio Sergio & Villa, Stefano Della (Ed.), Football Medicine Strategies for Player Care. XXIV International Conference on Sports Rehabilitation and Traumatology. Abstract Book.. Calzetti Mariucci Editori. ISSN 9788860284297. p. 151–151. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2015-095829. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Bere, Tone Tufte; Bahr, Roald; Kristianslund, Eirik & Nordsletten, Lars (2011). Mechanisms of injuries in World Cup Snowboard Cross : a systematic video analysis of 19 cases. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 45(16), p. 1315–1322. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2011-090527. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Snowboard cross (SBX) became an official Olympic sport in 2006. This discipline includes manoeuvring several obstacles while competing in heats. It is common for the riders to collide, making this sport both exciting and at risk of injuries. Although a recent study from the 2010 Olympic Games has shown that the injury risk was high, little is known about the injury mechanisms. Objective: To qualitatively describe the injury situation and mechanism of injuries in World Cup Snowboard Cross. Study design: Descriptive video analysis. Methods: Nineteen video recordings of SBX injuries reported through the International Ski Federation Injury Surveillance System for four World Cup seasons (2006 to 2010) were obtained. Five experts in the field of sports medicine, snowboard and biomechanics performed analyses of each case to describe the injury mechanism in detail (riding situation and rider behaviour). Results: Injuries occurred at jumping (n=13), bank turning (n=5) or rollers (n=1). The primary cause of the injuries was a technical error at take-off resulting in a too high jump and subsequent flat-landing. The rider was then unable to recover leading to fall at the time of injury. Injuries at bank turn was characterised by a pattern where the rider in a balanced position lost control due to unintentional contact with another rider. Conclusion: Jumping appeared to be the most challenging obstacle in SBX, where a technical error at take-off was the primary cause of the injuries. The second most common inciting event was unintentional board contact between riders at bank turning.

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• Johannessen, Tonje Rambøll; Atar, Dan; Halvorsen, Sigrun; Munkhaugen, John; Vallersnes, Odd Martin & Bakken, Arnhild [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2026). Point-of-Care High-Sensitivity Troponin Testing for Rapid Chest Pain Triage in Emergency Primary Care: Preliminary Single-Sample Efficacy Findings from the OUT-POC Study. Full text in Research Archive
• Kristensen, A M D; Holmager, T L F; Halvorsen, Sigrun; Olsen, M H; Bakken, Arnhild & Atar, Dan [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2026). Beta-blocker therapy and angina pectoris after myocardial infarction: a BETAMI-DANBLOCK substudy. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC). ISSN 2047-4873. 33(Supplement_2). doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag249.435. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Background Angina pectoris after myocardial infarction (MI) remains prevalent despite contemporary treatment strategies and affects quality of life and healthcare use. The evidence for the effects of beta-blocker therapy on angina pectoris in MI patients treated according to contemporary standards is limited. Purpose We aimed to evaluate the effects of beta-blockers on diagnostic procedures and hospitalizations for angina pectoris, as well as redeemed anti-anginal prescriptions and self-reported symptoms of angina among MI patients with LVEF ≥40% enrolled in the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial. Methods Participants in the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial were randomized to open-label long-term beta-blocker therapy or no such therapy within 14 days from MI. In this pre-specified substudy, we analyzed the effect of beta-blocker therapy on time to first diagnostic procedure (coronary angiogram, coronary CT angiography, PET-CT, myocardial perfusion scintigraphy, or stress echocardiography), hospitalization for angina, and ≥2 redeemed prescriptions for anti-anginal medications (calcium-antagonists, short-/long-acting nitrates) using Fine-Gray subdistribution hazards models with death as a competing risk. Self-reported angina symptoms were measured using the Canadian Cardiovascular Society angina grading and the New York Heart Association functional classification. Differences in self-reported symptoms (symptoms vs. no symptoms) at 1 year were compared between treatment groups using the chi-square test. Results In the DANBLOCK trial, 1352 patients were randomized to beta-blockers and 1355 to no beta-blockers. After a median follow-up of 3.5 years, 329 patients (24.3%) in the beta-blocker group and 395 patients (29.2%) in the no beta-blocker group underwent at least one diagnostic procedure for angina pectoris (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR] 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.74-0.99) (Table 1). Hospitalization for angina pectoris occurred in 59 patients (4.4%) in the beta-blocker group and 60 patients (4.4%) in the no beta-blocker group (sHR 0.99; 95% CI 0.69-1.42). A higher proportion of patients in the no-beta-blocker group redeemed ≥2 prescriptions for calcium-antagonists, whereas no difference was seen for nitrates (Table 1). Self-reported angina symptoms at 1 year did not differ significantly between treatment groups (Table 2). If accepted for presentation at the ESC Preventive Cardiology 2026 the results from BETAMI will also be included. Conclusion Among MI patients with LVEF ≥40%, beta-blocker therapy was associated with a lower risk of undergoing a diagnostic procedure for angina pectoris, and of redeeming ≥2 prescriptions for calcium antagonists, but not with a lower risk of hospitalization for angina pectoris. Self-reported angina symptoms appeared similar between treatment groups.For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.  For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.

• Sverre, Elise Christine Bjørkholen; Madssen, Erik; Kristensen, A M D; Nyen, J E; Bakken, Arnhild & Holmager, T [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2026). Effect of long-term beta-blocker therapy on physical activity after myocardial infarction: a post hoc analysis of the BETAMI trial. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC). ISSN 2047-4873. 33(Supplement_2). doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag249.065. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Introduction The BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial recently found that beta-blockers reduced the risk of all-cause death or major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with a recent myocardial infarction (MI) without heart failure symptoms and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40%. Some observational data and small intervention studies indicate a possible negative relationship between beta-blocker therapy and physical activity (PA) levels. However, it is still unclear how beta-blocker treatment influences PA after an acute MI. Purpose To investigate the effect of long-term beta-blocker therapy on PA level after MI in patients without heart failure. Method In this post-hoc analysis of the multicentre, randomized, open-label BETAMI trial with blinded endpoint evaluation, patients hospitalized with a MI and without heart failure were assigned to beta-blocker therapy within seven days after the event or no beta-blocker therapy. PA levels were assessed prior to randomization and at 1-, 6-, 12- and 18-months follow-up by self-reported questionnaires. The main endpoints were between-group changes in hours/week of light- (e.g., walking, dancing, cycling) and vigorous PA (e.g., brisk uphill walking, running) from baseline to 18 months, estimated by linear mixed models. Additionally, we assessed between-group differences in the proportion with guideline-recommended PA level (≥30 minutes of moderate activity on ≥5 days/week) and the participation rates in cardiac rehabilitation or organized PA programs. Results Of the 2867 patients, 2148 (75%) responded to the questions regarding PA in the follow-up period. Median age was 62 (IQR 55-70) years, and 19.6% were women. The median beta-blocker dose in the intervention arm was equivalent to metoprolol depot 50 mg/day. No differences in mean hours of light and vigorous physical activity were reported between the beta-blocker and non-beta-blocker groups at baseline, and these remained comparable throughout the 18 months follow-up (Figure 1). At baseline 31.2% met the guideline-recommended level of PA. This proportion increased to 39.2% at 6 months, with no significant differences between treatment arms at any time point (Figure 2). We found no effect of beta-blocker dose on the PA level. Participation in cardiac rehabilitation or organized PA at 12 months follow-up was 43.6% in the beta-blocker group and 42.3% in the non-beta-blocker group. Conclusions Beta-blocker therapy did not affect the PA level in post-MI patients without heart failure during 18 months follow-up.For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.  For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.

• Nyen, J; Kristensen, A M D; Fagerland, Morten; Dammen, Toril; Zwisler, A D & Olsen, M H [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2026). Beta-blocker therapy and sleep disturbances after myocardial infarction: a prespecified sub-study of the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC). ISSN 2047-4873. 33(Issue Supplement_2). doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag249.074. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Introduction Sleep disturbances have been proposed as a side effect of beta-blocker therapy, but evidence from large, randomised controlled trials are lacking. Purpose To evaluate the effects of beta-blockers on insomnia and nightmare frequency in patients with myocardial infarction (MI) and preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF≥40%) enrolled in the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial. Methods BETAMI-DANBLOCK was an open-label trial in Norway and Denmark in which MI-patients were randomised to receive long-term beta-blocker therapy or no such therapy. For this prespecified analysis, patients completed the Bergen Insomnia Scale (BIS) (all patients) and the Nightmare Frequency Questionnaire (NFQ) (Norwegian patients only) at baseline, 1-6, 12 and 18-24-months follow-up. BIS provides a continuous score (0-42) increasing with symptoms severity. BIS can also be used as a diagnostic tool (insomnia vs. no insomnia) based on self-reported diagnostic criteria scores. NFQ measures the number of nights with nightmares per week/month/year. The main endpoint was the incidence of insomnia during the first 12 months of follow-up in the two groups, estimated with logistic regression. Additional endpoints included between-group changes in BIS scores and nightmare frequency from baseline to 12 months, estimated by linear mixed models. Results Of 5574 randomised patients, 4728 (85% of all patients) completed BIS and 2031 (71% of the Norwegian patients) completed NFQ during the trial period. Median age was 62 (IQR: 55-70) years, 21% were women, and median metoprolol dose was 50 mg/day. At baseline, median self-reported sleep duration was 7 hours/night (IQR: 6-7.5) in both groups, median BIS score was 10 (IQR: 4-19) in both groups, and 40% fulfilled diagnostic criteria for insomnia. Beta-blocker therapy was associated with a negligible increase of 0.63 (95% CI: 0.03 to 1.24) in continuous BIS score. We found no statistically significant effect of beta-blockers on the incidence of insomnia during follow-up (Table 1). At baseline, the proportion of patients reporting nightmares at least monthly was 16% in the beta-blocker group and 15% in the no-beta-blocker group. A higher proportion of patients on beta-blockers reported at least monthly nightmares at 6 (25% vs 18%) and 12 (23% vs. 18%) months follow-up (6 months OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.02 to 4.40; 12 months OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.51 to 2.25). No significant change in the number of monthly nightmares was observed at 12 months (0.21, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.57). Conclusions We found no clear and substantial effects of beta-blocker therapy on the incidence of insomnia or nightmare frequency among post-MI patients with LVEF ≥40%; however, a small effect cannot be ruled out.For image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.

• Holmager, T; Kristensen, A; Fagerland, Morten; Atar, Dan; Olsen, M & Bakken, Arnhild [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2026). Validating national registry data for randomised trials: comparison of adjudicated and registry-derived cardiovascular outcomes in the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology (EJPC). ISSN 2047-4873. 33(Supplement_2). doi: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwag249.475. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Abstract Background Registry-based randomised clinical trials are increasingly dependent on registry-derived outcomes, providing advantages in feasibility and data capture. However, registry data may introduce bias through misclassification or incomplete information. In the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial, we compared registry-based cardiovascular events with and without adjudication, using information from national registries, electronic health records, and patient reports. Purpose To investigate whether registry-based endpoints can substitute adjudicated endpoints without materially altering trial results. Methods BETAMI-DANBLOCK enrolled 5,574 patients with myocardial infarction (MI) and a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40% from 2018 through 2024. Patients were randomised to beta-blocker therapy or no beta-blocker therapy. The primary endpoint events (death, MI, ischemic stroke, heart failure, unplanned coronary revascularisation, and ventricular arrhythmias) were identified from the Danish and Norwegian national patient registries, self-reported questionnaires, and medical records. All registry-identified events, except death, underwent blinded adjudication. We compared events with and without adjudication by calculating incidence rates and hazard ratios (HRs) for beta-blocker treatment versus controls. Results National registries had almost complete capture of events when compared to site-reporting. In total, 75% of the primary endpoint events identified through the registries were confirmed by adjudication. The confirmation rate was lower during the first six months and varied by event type (from 92% for ischemic stroke to 45% for unplanned coronary revascularisations). The incidence rate of the primary endpoint was 6.23 per 100 person-years using registry data without adjudication and 4.43 with adjudication. Estimated treatment effects were consistent for the primary endpoint (0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78-0.98 without adjudication and 0.85, 95% CI: 0.75-0.98 with adjudication), with no apparent differences across event types. Conclusion Registry data provide treatment effect estimates comparable to those obtained from adjudicated data in BETAMI-DANBLOCK. However, adjudication substantially reduced the total number of endpoint events and event-specific misclassification was a limitation, particularly during the first months after the index event.Cumulative incidence of primary endpointFor image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.  Forest plot of hazard ratiosFor image description, please refer to the figure legend and surrounding text.

• Sverre, Elise Christine Bjørkholen; Madssen, Erik; Nyen, Johanne; Bakken, Arnhild; Holmager, Therese & Jortveit, Jarle [Show all 11 contributors for this article] (2026). Effect of long-term beta-blocker therapy on physical activity after myocardial infarction: a post hoc analysis of the BETAMI trial. doi: https:/esc365.escardio.org/preventive-cardiology/sessions/18492-behaviour-and-awareness-in-risk-development-and-successful-risk-management. Full text in Research Archive
• Nyen, Johanne; Kristensen, Anna Meta; Fagerland, Morten; Dammen, Toril; Zwisler, Ann-Dorthe & Olsen, Michael Hecht [Show all 14 contributors for this article] (2026). Beta-blocker therapy and sleep disturbances after myocardial infarction: a prespecified sub-study of the BETAMI-DANBLOCK trial. doi: https:/esc365.escardio.org/preventive-cardiology/sessions/18499-risk-management-in-acute-coronary-syndrome. Full text in Research Archive
• Kristensen, Anna Meta Dyrvik; Rosello, Xavier; Atar, Dan; Yndigegn, Troels; Kimura, Takeshi & Latini, Roberto [Show all 25 contributors for this article] (2026). Bata-Blocker therapy after myocardial infraction in patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction: An individual patient data meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Hjerteforum. ISSN 0802-1465. 39(1), p. 120–121. Full text in Research Archive
• Munkhaugen, John; Bakken, Arnhild; Kristiansen, Anna Meta Dyrvig; Edvardsen, Thor; Wiseth, Rune & Steigen, Terje [Show all 12 contributors for this article] (2026). Sekundærforebygging med betablokkere etter hjerteinfarkt. 146. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.25.0735. Full text in Research Archive
• Atar, Dan; Bakken, Arnhild & Munkhaugen, John (2023). Achieving the unachievable: How to optimize lipid-lowering therapy in survivors of acute myocardial infarction. Kardiologia Polska. ISSN 0022-9032. 81(4), p. 327–329. doi: 10.33963/KP.a2023.0087. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Atar, Dan; Ruddox, Vidar; Halvorsen, Sigrun & Munkhaugen, John (2023). BETABLOKKERE ETTER HJERTEINFARKT– SKAL DEN FORTSATT GIS? Hjerteposten : fagtidsskrift for NSFs landsgruppe av kardiologiske sykepleiere. ISSN 1891-2532. p. 28–32. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Betablokkere har vært standard sekundærforebyggende behandling etter akutt hjerteinfarkt siden 1980-tallet. Siden den gang har diagnostikken og behandlingen av hjerteinfarkt forandret seg betydelig. Om betablokkere fortsatt er nyttig, skal BETAMI-studien gi svar på. Studien startet opp i oktober 2018 og er en av de største ikke-industrisponsede hjertestudiene som er gjennomført i Norge.

• Bakken, Arnhild (2018). Benefits of periodic health evaluation in professional football - a focus on musculoskeletal screening. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2018). Treatment and prognosis of muscle injuries: the value of results from functional testing. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2018). The benefits of periodic health evaluation in professional football. A focus on musculoskeletal screening. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2018). Benefits of periodic health evaluation in professional football - a focus on musculoskeletal screening. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Christiano; Aziz, Farooq & Tol, Johannes [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2017). The functional movement test 9+ is a poor screening test for lower extremity injuries in professional male football. British Journal of Sports Medicine. ISSN 0306-3674. 52(16), p. 1047–1053. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-097307. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Christiano; Aziz, Farooq & Tol, Johannes [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2017). The functional movement test 9+ is a poor screening test for lower extremity injuries in professional male football. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). What is the benefit of a pre-season musculoskeletal exam in professional football players and can it help to prevent injury? Full text in Research Archive
• Steenstrup, Sophie E.; Bakken, Arnhild; Bere, Tone Tufte; Patton, Declan A & Bahr, Roald (2017). Videoanalyse av mekanismer for hodeskader i FIS World Cup alpin, freestyle og snowboard. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). Musculoskeletal periodic health evaluation in professional football players - what are the benefits and can it help to prevent injury? Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, Aziz & Mosler, Andrea Britt [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2017). Muskelstyrketesting er lite treffsikkert til å predikere underekstremitetsskader blant elitefotballspillere. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). Functional movement screen & 9+ screening verktøy – kan vi bruke dette? Behandlernettverksseminar. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). Functional athletic screening – is it worth the effort? Full text in Research Archive
• Dyk, Nicol van; Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen & Bahr, Roald (2017). There are many good reasons to screen your athletes - but predicting future injury is not one of them. ASPETAR Sports Medicine Journal. ISSN 2304-0904. 7(12), p. 12–17. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). Association between muscle strength and lower extremity injury in football. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2017). The benefits of periodic health evaluation in professional football - a focus on musculoskeletal screening. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Farooq, a & Tol, JL [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2016). Inter-season variability of a functional movement test in professional football. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2016). Musculoskeletal periodic health examination in professional football - the benefits of functional movement tests. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Tol, Johannes & Whiteley, Rodney [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2016). The 9+ is a poor screening test for lower extremity injuries in professional male football. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Eirale, Cristiano; Tol, Johannes & Whiteley, Rodney [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2016). The 9+ is a poor screening test for lower extremity injuries in professional male football. Norsk idrettsmedisin. ISSN 0806-9328. 31(3), p. 33–33. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2015). Athlete screening in Sports Medicine. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2015). Athlete screening in injury and illness prevention. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Khan, Karim; Targett, Stephen; Tol, Johannes; Whiteley, Rodney & Witvrouw, Erik [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2015). Funksjonell screening av idrettsutøvere - sesong til sesong variasjon av NI-PLUSS screening test. Norsk idrettsmedisin. ISSN 0806-9328. 30(3), p. 41–41. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Khan, Karim; Targett, Stephen; Tol, Johannes; Whiteley, Rodney & Witvrouw, Erik [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2015). Funksjonell screening av idrettsutøvere - sesong til sesong variasjon av NI-PLUSS screening test. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Targett, Stephen; Bere, Tone Tufte; Adamuz, MC; Tol, JL & Whiteley, R [Show all 10 contributors for this article] (2015). What does a comprehensive periodic health evaluation in football players detect? Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2015). Periodic health examination (screening) in Middle Eastern elite football players. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2014). Periodic health examination of Middle Eastern elite football players. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Khan, Karim; Bere, Tone Tufte; Targett, Stephen; Tol, Hans van & Whiteley, R [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2014). Hva avdekkes ved helseundersøkelse (screening) av idrettsutøvere? Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild; Khan, Karim; Bere, Tone Tufte; Targett, Stephen; Tol, Hans van & Whiteley, R [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2014). Hva avdekkes ved helseundersøkelse (screening) av idrettsutøvere? Norsk idrettsmedisin. ISSN 0806-9328. p. 18–18. Full text in Research Archive
• Bere, Tone Tufte; Bakken, Arnhild & Wangensteen, Arnlaug (2013). De tre bukkene som skulle til Doha og gjøre seg fete. Norsk idrettsmedisin. ISSN 0806-9328. p. 38–42. Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild & Bahr, Roald (2013). What is the value of screening athletes for musculoskeletal injuries? Full text in Research Archive
• Bakken, Arnhild (2018). The benefits of periodic health evaluation in professional football: A focus on musculoskeletal screening. Norges idrettshøgskole. ISSN 9788250205567. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Injury and illness are common in professional football, causing substantial morbidity, and may have potentially negative long-term health consequences on the player. A periodic health evaluation (PHE) or screening examination is a widely used method to detect and manage health problems which may influence the athlete’s ability to train or compete. It is also used as a method to identify the athlete at risk with a view to implementing targeted prevention measures. FIFA encourages all football teams at the elite level to complete the football-specific Pre-Competition Medical Assessment (PCMA), which includes a comprehensive cardiovascular, general medical and musculoskeletal assessment. However, there has been limited research into the effectiveness of PHE, with the efficacy of PHE in detecting serious risk factors and health conditions being questioned. The overall aim of this thesis was to investigate the benefits of PHE in professional football with a focus on the musculoskeletal screening.

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