International approaches to orthopaedic sports injury education: Advancing clinical practice through global collaboration

Abstract

Sports injuries represent a growing global health challenge, placing substantial demands on healthcare systems and requiring multidisciplinary management. As orthopaedic sports trauma becomes increasingly complex, high-quality education and standardised training are essential to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes. This narrative review aims to analyse current educational models and training pathways in orthopaedic sports injury management worldwide, evaluate the role of technological innovations, and highlight opportunities for international collaboration to enhance clinical practice and education. A wide spectrum of training methods is currently employed, ranging from traditional time-based models to modern competency-based curricula. Innovations such as virtual and augmented reality, simulation-based learning, and e-learning have demonstrated promising results in surgical skill acquisition and knowledge retention. International fellowships and consensus frameworks further contribute to the harmonisation of training standards. However, disparities persist in access to educational resources, healthcare infrastructure, and implementation of new technologies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. To meet the demands of contemporary orthopaedic sports medicine, educational strategies must evolve through global collaboration, integration of emerging technologies, and commitment to equity. Standardised, multidisciplinary, and evidence-informed training models are needed to ensure optimal patient care and professional competence across diverse healthcare environments.